Free parking and shuttle a must for new hospital
Dear Premier David Eby and Health Minister Adrian Dix:
We strongly urge Island Health and our wise health ministry to arrange a sorely-needed, free patient shuttle for our great new Cowichan District Hospital.
We also heavily suggest free public parking to remain at our new CDH.
Introducing pay parking would be an onerously unnecessary charge for folks in dire straits physically and financially.
Further, a free shuttle to bring patients to our new hospital, and home — often during nighttime hours — would solve a long-standing patient-transportation problem plaguing our beloved current hospital.
That shuttle should start soonest to address CDH’s current ride needs, and to ensure a smooth transition toward our new hospital’s 2027 opening.
Please note Premier Eby and Minister Dix, our excellent emergency-room staff struggles with discharging patients lacking a ride home. Local taxi services are often unavailable or busy for that crucial need.
Yours in health and safety,
Peter W. Rusland
North Cowichan