Montreal General Leads Quebec Hospitals in Urgent Need of Repair
A recent evaluation of Quebec’s hospital infrastructure has shed light on a critical situation within the province’s healthcare system. The assessment indicates that the medical facilities are facing a more severe decline than previously recognized. The data shows a notable increase in the number of hospitals rated in poor condition, rising sharply over the past year.
Hospital Conditions in Quebec
According to updated data from Santé Québec, nearly 38 percent of the 594 hospital buildings in the province are deemed to be in “poor” (rated D) or “very poor” (rated E) condition as of early 2026. This marks a dramatic increase from approximately 100 such buildings in early 2025, now reaching 227.
Financial Concerns
The escalating deterioration comes with staggering financial implications. The asset maintenance deficit for these hospitals has escalated from around $900 million last year to over $2 billion now. The need for urgent repairs highlights systemic issues faced across Quebec’s healthcare facilities.
Montreal: The Epicenter of Urgent Repairs
Montreal has emerged as a focal point for these urgent repairs. Data indicates that nearly half of the province’s most deteriorated hospitals are located in this city. At the forefront is the Montreal General Hospital, which has been identified as the most critically damaged facility in the province.
Montreal General Hospital in Distress
- Recent ratings show a dramatic decline for the Montreal General, dropping from a “B” grade to an “E,” indicating very poor condition.
- Colleen Timm, executive director of the McGill University Health Centre, stated that the hospital has experienced 260 water leaks in just 2024.
- Extensive repairs are needed, including updates to plumbing and electrical systems, with the maintenance deficit approximated at $249 million.
Broader Issues in the Region
While Montreal General Hospital represents a pressing case, it is not the only facility grappling with significant challenges. Other hospitals, such as the Douglas Mental Health Institute, Hôtel-Dieu de Québec, and Saint-Jérôme regional hospital, each require around $100 million in repairs.
Communications from Health Officials
Sonia Dugas, vice-president of finance at Santé Québec, expressed serious concerns regarding the rapid decline in the state of hospital facilities. She emphasized the need for thorough evaluations of aging infrastructure that had not been updated for years.
- The province currently allocates a maintenance budget of $1 billion for hospital repairs.
- However, actual repair costs are projected to be at least double this amount.
The urgent need for action is evident. As Quebec faces these escalating challenges, maintaining existing hospitals must take precedence before planning for new construction. The infrastructure crisis requires immediate attention to safeguard the health and well-being of the public.
