Page 6 - GBGH Foundation Newsletter - Winter 2026

A RENDERING OF THE NEW MAMMOGRAPHY SPACE, WHICH WILL ENHANCE ACCESS TO SCREENING AND DIAGNOSIS FOR OUR COMMUNITY.
HOSPITAL UPDATE FROM MATTHEW LAWSON, GBGH CEO
BUILDING BETTER CARE, TOGETHER.

At GBGH, “We See You” is more than a fundraising campaign. It’s our promise to our
community: every patient, family member, and donor.

We see the challenges you face, the long waits and burden of travel, and the hope for better health care close to
home. Every project we invest in is a response to what we see and hear from our community.

In March, we are preparing to celebrate a major step forward: the completion of our new mammography suite. We see
thousands of local residents eligible for breast screening, and we know our region has some of the lowest screening
rates in Ontario. That’s why we have designed our program for accessibility and comfort. We will offer flexible booking
options (phone, email, online), extended hours, and a welcoming environment with private spaces and patient-
centered touches. We’re listening to your feedback and consulting with people in our community to ensure every
detail meets the needs of our diverse population.

But our vision doesn’t stop there. We also see the urgent need for better mental health care in North Simcoe. Patients
seeking acute mental health support at GBGH are waiting, on average, 66 hours for admission to a regional bed (the
longest in Simcoe County), and nearly 45% of these patients also require medical care – care that should be delivered
holistically, without delay. We are working tirelessly with the Ministry of Health to advocate for a new acute mental
health program at GBGH, which will provide both medical and mental health care, together, under one roof, ensuring
timely and equitable care for those in crisis.

These projects are possible because of you. Your generosity continues to empower us to live out our purpose of
making excellent care personal. Thank you for seeing the need, sharing your support, and investing in our hospital.

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