FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Strathroy, ON – The Ontario government is investing more than $3.3 million in additional base operating funding, along with targeted one-time investments, to support patient care at the Middlesex Hospital Alliance (MHA) in 2026-27, Lambton—Kent—Middlesex MPP Steve Pinsonneault announced today.
The funding is part of Ontario’s more than $1.1 billion investment in hospitals across the province announced in the 2026 Budget, representing a four per cent increase in hospital sector funding to help hospitals deliver high-quality care and reduce wait times.
Four Counties Health Services (FCHS) received a 4.00 per cent increase in base funding, representing approximately $531,000, along with $150,000 to support one-time initiatives. The additional funding is expected to bring the hospital closer to a balanced operating position for 2026-27 as we continue to maximize operational efficiency.
Strathroy Middlesex General Hospital (SMGH) received:
– A 3.00 per cent increase in base funding totaling approximately $1.28 million;
– An additional $758,000 in performance-based funding;
– Investments supporting quality-based procedures in Medicine, Cataract Surgery and Orthopedic Surgery; and
– $545,000 in one time funding to help decrease Emergency Department wait times and to support front-line staff training across multiple departments.
“High-quality health care starts with ensuring our hospitals have the stable, reliable funding they need to meet the needs of our growing communities,” said Steve Pinsonneault, MPP for Lambton–Kent–Middlesex. “This increased investment in Strathroy Middlesex General Hospital and Four Counties Health Services will help strengthen frontline care, support the dedicated health-care professionals who serve our communities every day, and improve access to the services that patients and families rely on. Our government is committed to building a stronger health-care system that delivers timely, exceptional care.”
“We are grateful for the Province’s continued investment in rural and community hospitals,” said Julie McBrien, MHA President & CEO. “These additional resources will help us continue providing exceptional care while responding to the increasing healthcare needs of the communities we serve.”
Despite these investments and SMGH’s ongoing efforts to maximize existing operational efficiency, the hospital continues to face significant pressures as demand for services grows and healthcare delivery costs continue to rise. Sustained investment will be essential to ensure the hospital can meet the evolving needs of the communities it serves.
About the Middlesex Hospital Alliance
The Middlesex Hospital Alliance provides quality healthcare close to home through Strathroy Middlesex General Hospital and Four Counties Health Services in Newbury, serving communities across Middlesex, Chatham Kent, Lambton and Elgin counties.
Media Contacts:
| Middlesex Hospital Alliance Rhiana Alfadili Rhiana.Alfadili@mha.tv.ca 519-245-5295 #5599 | MPP Steve Pinsonneault Kara Carther kara.carther@pc.ola.org 519-627-1015 |