Parking fees will be eliminated at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital, effective July 1, 2016.
“We have listened to concerns expressed by patients and visitors, especially those who drive distances and must come to the hospital often,” says Minister of Health and Wellness Robert Henderson. “By eliminating parking fees, we are helping to ensure that cost is not a barrier to supporting a loved one when they are ill.”
Approximately, 1,000 patients and visitors access the hospital every day. The decision to make parking free at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital brings it in line with all other Island hospitals who offer free parking. It is expected to save patients and visitors $340,000 per year.
“It can be stressful for patients and family members who must travel back and forth to the hospital on a frequent basis. Eliminating the need to pay to park will make this a better experience for everyone,” said Queen Elizabeth Hospital CAO Jamie MacDonald.
The hospital’s parking fees are currently waived for patients with long-term treatment schedules, including those receiving care at the PEI Cancer Treatment Centre, Hemodialysis Unit and emergency department. Exceptions are also made for patients and families in unique circumstances, on a case-by-case basis.
The Queen Elizabeth Hospital first introduced parking fees in 1993 as a means to raise additional revenue to support further investments in frontline health services.