New research centre for Vancouver hospital

Vancouver, BC – A new, state-of-the-art research centre is to be established at Vancouver General Hospital, housing three internationally recognized research programs and named after Robert H N Ho in honour of his $15-million donation.

The seven-storey, 6,442 sq m facility will house three of the hospital’s key research programs: the Vancouver Prostate Centre at VGH; the Centre for Hip Health and Mobility; and the Ovarian Cancer Research Initiative.

The Robert H N Ho Research Centre will house hundreds of scientists and clinicians pioneering new treatments and cures for patients with prostate and ovarian cancers, as well as hip and mobility issues. The gift will also fund enhancements in the cardiac investigation and intervention unit, including new equipment and research to improve cardiac care.

The donation paves the way for access to further funds including the BC Knowledge Development Fund and federal funds including the Canada Foundation for Innovation (CFI). The cost to build the new research centre is approximately $41.5 million with a total cost including personnel and equipment of more than $60 million. The total provincial government contribution to the new research centre through BCKDF and the Ministry of Health Services is more than $22 million.