A large group of concerned citizens turned out tonight to discuss Stewart Memorial Hospital's role in the province's integrated health-care
system, says Minister of Health and Wellness Doug Currie.
"We appreciated the opportunity to hear their ideas and concerns and to provide them with as
much information as possible," said Minister Currie. "I hope the community will continue to
work with the department and Health PEI as we move forward."
Minister Currie and Jamie MacDonald of Health PEI’s Provincial Clinical Services division
presented information regarding health care changes in their area.
Stewart Memorial Hospital will be converted to a 23-bed long term care facility. Two of those
beds will be set aside for respite care.
The hospital will continue partnerships to provide Meals on Wheels and foot care.
Proposed changes will also see enhanced primary care services in the area with blood collection
services transferred to the Tyne Valley Health Centre located across the street from Stewart
Memorial.
Health PEI is reviewing the potential for other ambulatory care services that could be provided at
the health centre in consultation with physicians and staff.
The Tyne Valley area will see no change to their home care programs and services including
occupation therapy, physiotherapy, dietician, personal care, in-home respite and integrated
palliative care.
People requiring x-ray services will be able to access these services at Community Hospital
O’Leary, Western Hospital or Prince County Hospital.
Ambulance services will improve in West Prince with the addition of a new rapid response unit
to the area. This medically-equipped SUV will be staffed by a highly trained paramedic who will
initiate assessment and treatment. He or she will be in constant contact with the ambulance until
it arrives, if indeed transport is necessary.
Matthew Crossman, General Manager of Island EMS (IEMS), outlined the role of ambulance
services in the province. He advised that emergency care begins as soon as a person dials 9-1-1. Prior to hospital arrival, paramedics can assess, treat, manage symptoms and administer
medications.
More community information sessions will be taking place in O'Leary, Summerside and
Montague. Details on times and locations for these meetings and information on Better Access,
Better Care can be found online at www.betteraccessbettercare.ca or by calling 1-800-236-5196.