Chalmers Foundation launches Community Campaign for Hybrid OR in Fredericton

FREDERICTON, NB – The Chalmers Foundation today launched its $4.6 million community campaign to fund a Hybrid Operating Room at the Dr. Everett Chalmers Regional Hospital. With $3.02 million already secured, the Foundation is now aiming to raise the remaining $1.58 million needed to equip the new surgical suite.

The Hybrid OR combines advanced imaging technology and surgical skills in one room, allowing physicians to perform complex vascular procedures, cancer biopsies, and minimally invasive treatments in a single session. Instead of scheduling imaging and surgery days or weeks apart, care is delivered through one coordinated procedure.

The suite is part of the first comprehensive renovation of surgical space at DECRH in decades. A dedicated area has already been built within the newly renovated surgical wing. Once equipment is purchased, installation will take approximately 14 months.

Over $2 million in leadership gifts have been committed by the JT Clark Family Foundation, John and Pam Clark, The McCain Foundation, and Laurie Savage.

Dr. Claus Schaus, Campaign Chair and leading vascular surgeon, stated that the Hybrid OR is a significant step forward in surgical capability for the region. Dr. Schaus emphasized that the campaign is not about adding infrastructure for its own sake, but about strengthening the hospital’s ability to deliver advanced care close to home.

“As surgeons, we see every day where time, precision, and coordination matter most,” said Dr. Schaus. “A Hybrid OR allows us to combine imaging and surgery in real time. That means fewer procedures, fewer transfers, and better clinical control during complex cases. This is not an incremental improvement. It changes what we are able to do for patients in Fredericton, Upper River region, and across New Brunswick.”

Several months ago, the provincial government committed funding to support operational readiness and preparation for the new suite.

“The success of this campaign is a testament to what we can achieve when a community comes together,” said Premier Susan Holt. “We are proud to collaborate with Chalmers Foundation, Horizon Health Network, health care professionals, and the Fredericton community to make this long-awaited hybrid operating room a reality. To the advocates and donors who helped kickstart it, and to those who will carry it forward, thank you. Together, you are making a meaningful difference for patients across this region.”

The promise of a Hybrid OR is already making a difference in our region’s healthcare system. “We have recruited two new vascular surgeons this year. We have upgraded the surgical space. The province has allocated operational funding. What is left is the specialized equipment that makes the operating room fully functional. The community now has the chance to complete that work,” said Dr. Schaus.

Dr. Patricia Bryden, Horizon Physician Program Lead for Surgical Services, noted the importance of the Hybrid OR for both patient care and recruitment.

“We’re very excited about the new Hybrid OR at the DECRH and the improvements in surgical care and the overall patient experience that will follow,” said Dr. Patricia Bryden. “Having access to advanced surgical environments strengthens our ability to attract and retain highly skilled specialists,” said Dr. Bryden. “Physicians want to practice in facilities that support complex, modern care. This suite positions DECRH to continue growing its surgical programs.”

Charles A. Diab, CEO of the Chalmers Foundation, said that the campaign is entering its final and most crucial phase. “The infrastructure is ready. The clinical team is in place. Leadership donors have provided extraordinary momentum,” said Diab. “Our responsibility now is clear. We must close the remaining $1.58 million so installation can begin and this room can come online as quickly as possible.”

“Installation will take around 14 months after equipment is funded and ordered. The quicker the remaining funds are secured, the sooner the Hybrid OR can start serving patients,” said Diab.

For more information on the campaign, and the Hybrid OR, please visit the campaign landing page.

Additional Quotes:

JT Clark Family Foundation: The JT Clark Family Foundation is very happy to contribute to the Hybrid OR Campaign. The health care system in Fredericton needs as much help as possible. This campaign will add additional services for the members of the Fredericton and surrounding areas. We feel it is our responsibility to be part of this solution.

Laurie & Glenna Savage: “Access to health care is important to my family and our community. With the new hybrid operating room, our physicians have state-of-the-art tools available to them, meaning more patients will get the help they need.”

About The McCain Foundation

Established in 1993, The McCain Foundation has supported charities and community projects throughout Atlantic Canada with a particular focus on New Brunswick where McCain Foods was founded.  The Foundation provides grants in the areas of arts and culture, community services, education, environment, and health and welfare.  For more information about The McCain Foundation, please visit www.mccainfoundation.org.