Submitted Story |
The local Medical Services Stakeholders group met Wednesday, May 23 with community representatives who expressed an interest in taking an active role in revitalizing health care within the Swan Valley.
The purpose of the meeting was to expand the organized and coordinated effort of local stakeholders working toward common health care goals. Attendees included individuals, service organizations, business owners, health care professionals as well as municipal and provincial government representatives.
Duane Whyte, G7 Medical Services Committee, welcomed attendees and commented on recent tours given to potential doctors and medical students.
Shauna Klekta, Swan Valley RISE, provided an update on the current status and anticipated ongoing direction. The priority areas of Physician Recruiting, Medical Clinic Planning and Community Integration were discussed and attendees were encouraged to contribute their experience, ideas and efforts through ongoing involvement in one of the three areas.
The primary focus of the Physician Recruiting Committee will be to identify opportunities to assist in retaining a sufficient number of physicians trained to administer anesthetic and perform cesarean sections. This would assist in restoring maternity services and could support the continuation of services such as cataract and maxillofacial surgery.
The Medical Clinic Planning Committee will continue to investigate the operational structure, funding, and physical location of a modern medical clinic facility and will coordinate efforts with existing facilities and services.
The Integration Committee will focus on the important task of assisting physicians and their families in relocating to our community and making the Swan Valley their home.
Following the presentation and open forum discussion, attendees signed up to participate on committees within their area of interest. Meetings with each committee will be held soon to formalize objectives, develop action plans and assign tasks.
Individuals or groups who would like to participate with one of the committees should contact:
Shauna Klekta, Economic Development Officer at 734-3668 or
Duane Whyte, Chairman (G7) Medical Services Committee at 734-2316.