Construction on the new Leader Integrated Health Care Facility will begin in December, following the awarding of the construction tender to Wright Construction Western Inc. today.
Tag Archives: Ministry of Health
Grand Opening Event Planned for Maple Creek
The Cypress Health Region is excited to announce that a ‘Grand Opening’ event will be held to formally acknowledge the completion of construction and the full transition of services to the new Southwest Integrated Healthcare Facility in Maple Creek.
An event will be held on Friday, October 23rd starting at 11:00 AM and will take place at the new facility.
The public is invited to participate in the event and help to celebrate the addition of the newest health care facility in the southwest, which will serve the community of Maple Creek and surrounding areas for many years to come. Those attending are asked to use the main entrance and avoid those parking areas that are designated for patient use.
The Minister of Health and Minister of Rural and Remote Health, as well as local and regional dignitaries will be in attendance at this event. An official ribbon cutting ceremony and unveiling of a commemorative plaque will also take place during the program.
West Nile Virus Now Circulating
The Ministry of Health’s mosquito monitoring program has confirmed the presence of mosquitoes carrying the West Nile Virus in Saskatchewan. This confirmation, coupled with a human case of West Nile Virus in a neighboring health region, is an important reminder to take extra precautions against mosquito bites over the coming weeks.
“The Culex tarsalis mosquitoes are circulating, are carrying the West Nile Virus, and are infecting people. It is key to protect oneself from mosquito bites to avoid getting infected with the virus”, stated Dr. David Torr, Consulting Medical Health Officer for the Cypress Health Region. “There is no vaccine and no specific medication for West Nile Virus. Prevention is our best tool.”
Dr. Torr suggests that individuals can reduce the risk of mosquito bites by using appropriate insect repellant, wearing protective clothing while outdoors, ensuring doors and windows are kept closed, and if open, having an intact mosquito mesh to prevent mosquitoes from coming in. It is also important to eliminate any potential breeding sites around your home, particularly bushes and stagnant pools of water. It is key to note the importance of personal precautions around dusk and dawn when Culex tarsalis is most active, as well as in shaded, cool areas.
Many people who become infected with the virus will have no symptoms or will experience mild illness. However, severe illness and complications involving the nervous system, including brain inflammation, can occur. Common symptoms of West Nile Virus may include fever, headaches, and body aches. More severe symptoms can include confusion, paralysis, seizures, and loss of consciousness. It is wise to seek medical advice if you experience severe or persistent symptoms of this kind.
Updated surveillance results, risk maps, and weekly West Nile Virus/Culex tarsalis reports are posted every Friday on the Ministry of Health’s website. Visitors to this site can also find a wealth of information on signs, symptoms, and other preventative measures. The provincial HealthLine Online website also provides relevant information.
Government of Saskatchewan Calls for Public Representatives
Saskatchewan residents who want to make a difference in health care have the opportunity to serve on a committee that helps ensure decisions on out-of-province and out-of-country medical coverage are consistent with legislation, policies and guidelines.
The Ministry of Health is seeking motivated people to fill several public representative positions on the Health Services Review Committee, an independent body which reviews government decisions made on out-of-province and out-of-country medical coverage. Closing date for submission of resumés is June 6.
“We’re looking for people who would like to share their knowledge and voice, putting the interests of patients first,” Health Minister Dustin Duncan said. “Public members play an important role in ensuring the best interests of Saskatchewan residents are represented.”
Patients may request a review of Ministry of Health decisions to ensure that government policy was followed.
Although prior approval is not required for most hospital and physician services received in other provinces, coverage for out-of-country treatment is only considered in exceptional circumstances and must have prior approval from the Ministry of Health. Information on out-of-province and out-of-country medical services can be found at www.health.gov.sk.ca/out-of-province.
Saskatchewan citizens with relevant skills including prior experience on boards, councils or committees are encouraged to apply. Typically these are three-year appointments, which may be extended for a second term. Meetings convene in Regina, Saskatoon or other locations in Saskatchewan. The time commitment ranges from four to 12 days a year. Travel expenses and an honourarium will be paid.
Saskatchewan residents interested in serving on the committee should submit a resumé including a history of their community involvement and volunteer activities, along with relevant education and employment experience, to the Saskatchewan Ministry of Health, Health Services Review Committee, 3475 Albert Street, Regina SK S4S 6X6, or email HealthServices.ReviewCommittee@health.gov.sk.ca.
For further details, visit www.health.gov.sk.ca/HSRC.