Hospital Foundation Asks North Frontenac For $15,000 for new MRI

Jeff Green | Nov 30, 2023

Representatives of the Perth & Smiths Falls District Hospital Foundation were at North Frontenac Council’s regular meeting Nov. 24 looking for a $15,000 commitment for its new MRI unit.

The unit is already installed at the Smiths Falls site and the first patient was scanned in November, said Bruce Rigby, representing the Foundation.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is a specialized imaging test that uses a strong magnetic field and radio waves to produce detailed 3D images of organs and structures inside the human body, Rigby said.

“It’s state of the art for doctors’ diagnosis,” he said.

The total cost of the project is $6.1million (including $2 million in renovations to the Smiths Falls facility) of which $1.8 million has already been raised.

“We’re hoping to hit $2 million by the end of the year,” he said. “The province doesn’t pay for equipment.

“If you’re in a bed, it’s paid for by donations. If you’re sitting in a chair, it’s paid for by donations. If you’re getting medicines from a cabinet . . .

“OHIP does pay for patients to use the equipment.”

“What happens if you don’t reach your goal?” asked Coun. Roy Heutl.

“We figure we will, but it’s a marathon,” said Rigby.

That’s where municipal governments come in.

Rigby said the hospitals draw from an area of about 60,000 in habitants. Citing, the 2021 census, North Frontenac has about 2,285 and $15,000 works out to about $6.56 per person over three years or $2.18 per person per year (at $5,000 per year).

Rigby said that if a patient has to go to Kingston or Ottawa for an MRI, it could be 2 a.m. before there is an opening. He said having an MRI in Smiths Falls might also be valuable in the physician recruitment process.

“One of the first questions prospective doctors often ask is where is the nearest MRI,” he said.

If and how much North Frontenac contributes will be decided at budget time.

“It sounds like a worthwhile endeavour,” said Mayor Gerry Lichty.

EV Charging Stations

Council voted to have staff apply for funding opportunities to install electric vehicle charging stations under two programs.

Under the first program, if successful, there would be level 2 charging stations installed at the Snow Road Community Hall, Ompah Community Hall, Clar Mill Hall and Barrie Community Hall. There would be no charge for the public to use these stations because the cost of software and equipment to charge for them outweighs the cost of the electricity, which would be minimal, said Manager of Community Development Brooke Ross.

Under the second program, if the application is successful, two level 3 chargers would be installed at the municipal offices. Ross said the two charges must be installed on the same property.

There would be a charge for the public to use the level 3 charges but they would be available for any electric vehicles the Township might buy.

The level 3 chargers would cost the Township about $2,800.

Level 2 chargers do not require 3-phase hydro (level 3 does and typically a separate electrical service and transformer.

Level 2 chargers have the same electrical requirements as a large household appliance (ie a stove or dryer) and provide 16-120 kilometers of driving per hour of charging depending on the charger model.

Level 3 chargers provide about 193-2,250+ kilometres of driving per hour depending on charger model and will not charge a hybrid vehicle.

“I’m kind of on the fence,” said Coun. Vern Hermer. “Technology is changing so rapidly these days.”

On the level 3 chargers, Coun. Wayne Good said: “on this one, we’re not losing any money.

“It would be nice to have but I think it would get more usage at Barrie Hall.”

Bert says “G’Day”

After his attempt to raise discussion on septic systems was disallowed by Mayor Gerry Lichty during the public forum segment, long-time Council attendee Herbert (Bert) Kent announced that he wouldn’t be attending meetings any more and this was his last one.

“Last time I’ll have to put up with you idiots, G’day!” he said before storming out.

COLA for staff

Council approved a 3.5 per cent Cost of Living Adjustment for staff. The figure might be revisited at budget time.