Ground broken on new Primary Health Care Centre

The Algonquins of Pikwakanagan First Nation (AOPFN) in Ontario today has broken ground on a Primary Health Care Centre construction project.

ASCO Construction has been awarded the project that will cost $3.9 million. The 4,500 sq. ft. facility is designed to accommodate the primary health care team, visiting services, students, tradition/cultural programs, staff board room, kitchen, office space, reception and wait area, and physio room.

“The Algonquins of Pikwakanagan are grateful for the continued efforts of the Ontario government to recognize the needs of our First Nation,” said Chief Greg Sarazin. 

With the facility, the nation will be able to provide enhanced health care to the community and expand on partnerships with Pembroke Regional Hospital for medical residents, the University of Ottawa for nurse practitioner students and nursing students, and Algonquin College for registered nursing students, said Sarazin. 

Syliva Jones, Ontario deputy premier and minister of Health, emphasized the importance of the project in improving health outcomes for the Algonquins of Pikwakanagan and highlighted the government's dedication to supporting Indigenous health initiatives.