A Transformational Year for McMaster Children’s Hospital: How Hamilton’s Kids Are Getting Healthier
2024 has been a banner year for McMaster Children’s Hospital (MCH) and the Ron Joyce Children’s Health Centre, marking a time of growth, innovation, and remarkable transformation in pediatric care for Hamilton and beyond. Thanks to a monumental $50-million-plus investment from the provincial government in 2023, the hospital has dramatically improved care for kids across the region, showing just how much a focused effort can achieve.
A Crisis Turned Opportunity
Just a year ago, MCH faced serious challenges. Families experienced long waits for assessments, treatments, and surgeries. Children like Daisy—a young athlete and student—were caught in the limbo of delayed diagnoses and treatment. Daisy’s severe gastrointestinal issues were holding her back from her vibrant life, but the MCH team, equipped with new resources, brought her the answers and care she desperately needed. Diagnosed with severe ulcerative colitis, Daisy is now on the path to recovery and chasing her dream of becoming a professional hockey player.
The Impact of $50 Million
This transformative funding wasn’t just a drop in the bucket. It’s a wave that’s rippled across every aspect of pediatric care at MCH. In just one year, this investment has enabled the hospital to:
Enhance Services and Expand Spaces: More room and resources mean faster care for more kids.
Hire Top Talent: With 300 new roles added in 2024, the hospital now boasts an even larger team of experts, combining compassion with cutting-edge skills.
Treat More Patients: Over 14,800 additional children and youth received specialized care, on top of the 100,000 kids MCH serves annually.
Achievements That Speak Volumes
Here’s how the numbers stack up:
Pediatric emergency department wait times were slashed by 19%.
Over 8,700 surgeries were performed in 2024 — that’s 1,100 more life-changing procedures compared to previous years.
Vital mental health services expanded, reaching 1,800 more children and youth.
Eating disorder clinics accommodated 900 additional visits.
MRI scans increased by 21%, enabling faster, life-saving diagnoses.
Beyond the Numbers: New Programs and Innovations
MCH didn’t just expand — it innovated. The Extensive Needs Service was launched to support children with complex medical and developmental needs and their families. These efforts ensure that every child, no matter how complex their case, receives tailored and compassionate care.
Looking Ahead to 2025
While 2024’s accomplishments are worth celebrating, MCH isn’t resting on its laurels. The team is already planning to build on this momentum, working closely with the government and community partners to continue elevating the standard of pediatric care. As MCH President Bruce Squires puts it, “An investment in kids’ health is an investment in the future of our community.”
A Thank You to Hamilton
None of this would be possible without the people behind the scenes — the skilled staff, physicians, and, most importantly, the community. As Hamiltonians, we’re proud to have MCH leading the charge for better health care for our kids.
As we move into 2025, let’s keep supporting initiatives that make Hamilton not just “The Ambitious City” but also a city that takes care of its youngest residents. Here’s to healthier kids and a brighter future!
