From left: Dr. Kevin Page, FSJ Hospital Foundation Board Member; Denise Mitchell, Respiratory Department Clinical Lead; Charissa Bourgeau, Acute Care Respiratory Therapist; Desirae Jeannotte, FSJ Hospital Foundation Board Chair; Lisette Vienneau, Regional Director Diagnostic Services for Northern Health; and Jamie Lefley, FSJ Hospital Foundation Board Member.
The FSJ Hospital Foundation joins FSJ Hospital staff in cutting the ribbon on expanded services – a milestone expected to benefit more than 2,000 patients each year.
With generous support from a grant from TB Vets Charitable Foundation and FSJ Hospital Foundation donors, the Respiratory Department has acquired a body plethysmography box, enabling the hospital to earn an expanded scope of practice through the BC Diagnostic Accreditation Program and the Ministry of Health. This accreditation now allows the team to perform advanced pulmonary function testing and respiratory muscle strength assessments previously only offered in Prince George.
Beginning February 5, 2026, patients across the Northeast will have local access to a full range of detailed lung function tests, reducing the need for long-distance travel and increasing timely diagnosis and care close to home.
“As a regional leader, I’m incredibly proud of our respiratory teams, who have consistently advocated for this equipment because they understand the impact it can have on patients. Seeing this move forward sooner than expected is very meaningful, and it reflects both their dedication and our shared commitment to improving access to specialized respiratory care for people across the North, closer to home,” emphasized Lisette Vienneau, Regional Director Diagnostic Services for Northern Health.
This achievement reflects a strong, multi‑partner collaboration that brought together the FSJ Hospital Foundation, Northern Health leadership, clinical teams, TB Vets, and the generosity of local donors to enhance specialized respiratory care for our region.
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For media inquiries or further information, please contact Emily Olson, Community Giving & Event Coordinator
at 250-261-7564 or email Emily.Olson@northernhealth.ca