Island Health Announces Concept Planning for a New Patient Tower at Nanaimo Regional General Hospital is Underway

On Tuesday, February 17, 2026, Janice Perrino, Chair of the Nanaimo Regional Hospital District (NRHD), attended the 2026 Budget Speech at the BC Legislature in Victoria as a guest of MLA Sheila Malcolmson. During the speech, the Government of British Columbia announced a commitment of $5.1 billion to strengthen and protect healthcare, K–12 education, and social supports for people who need care and assistance. The health‑care investments will support the planning, development, and operations of new or renovated hospitals, long‑term care homes, and cancer centres. For more information regarding the Government of British Columbia’s 2026 Budget visit BC Budget 2026 .

The NRHD is grateful for the Province’s ongoing commitment to both the long‑term care facility and the Nanaimo Cancer Centre projects. Construction on the Nanaimo Cancer Centre, located at Nanaimo Regional General Hospital, began this past spring. It is anticipated that construction on the long‑term care facility in Lantzville will begin later in 2026.

As noted in Island Health’s February 23, 2026 Facebook post, planning has also begun for a new patient tower that will enhance cardiac and acute care services. On December 10, 2026, the NRHD Board resolved to fund the concept plan and business plan for the patient tower and cardiac catheterization lab projects, as well as the construction costs for the catheterization lab, as part of its overall funding commitment. The NRHD looks forward to continuing its work with Island Health and the Province to advance these important projects.