Health Minister Addresses Emergency Care Concerns in Hamiota

HAMIOTA — On March 15, 2024, Health Minister Uzoma Asagwara met with approximately 75 residents in Hamiota, a town in western Manitoba, to address ongoing concerns regarding the local emergency care centre. The meeting, held at the community centre, provided a platform for residents to voice their experiences and frustrations related to emergency medical services.

During the hour-long session, residents shared personal accounts highlighting the deficiencies in emergency response times. Robin Johnston, an elderly local resident, expressed his distress over the lengthy wait for an ambulance that he believes contributed to the death of his wife, Bette Johnston. “Everybody here should be cheering that we should have an ambulance,” he stated. “It would have saved my wife’s life.”

In response, Asagwara acknowledged the residents’ concerns, stating, “We know there is a shortage. We agree. We think you should have an ambulance in your community, absolutely.” This sentiment resonated with many attendees who feel that immediate access to emergency services is critical for their safety.

Positive Developments and Community Support

While many comments during the meeting were critical, there were also messages of gratitude. One woman praised the healthcare system for successfully treating her father, indicating that there are positive aspects within the current framework. Asagwara highlighted that a full class of paramedics is currently training at Red River College Polytechnic, with many intending to work in rural Manitoba upon graduation. “The work is happening, literally, right now as we speak,” Asagwara noted. “There is a path forward here, in terms of us all rowing in the same direction towards a 24/7 ER.”

The meeting also shed light on the operational challenges faced by the Hamiota Health Centre. Since the suspension of full-time emergency services in 2019, the community has been grappling with service interruptions. For the week of November 3-9, 2019, the hospital’s schedule indicated three days without emergency department services.

Following the public meeting, Asagwara emphasized the importance of gaining firsthand insights from the community. “We felt it was very important to come out to Hamiota and hear directly from the community,” Asagwara remarked, adding that the visit was “the right thing to do.”

Addressing Staffing and Equipment Challenges

Hamiota Mayor Randy Lints remarked on the minister’s visit, noting that both Asagwara and health officials toured the health centre and appeared committed to addressing the issues raised. “I like what I heard at the facility,” Lints said. “I thought it went really well.” He pointed out that the primary concerns revolve around a lack of laboratory staff and necessary equipment, which contribute to disruptions in emergency services.

Furthermore, Jason Little, CEO of emergency response services for Shared Health, echoed the minister’s optimism regarding staffing. He indicated that this year, the province expects to graduate between 60 and 80 paramedics, with an even larger cohort anticipated next year. “As long as everybody gets through, we will have anywhere between 80 and 100 graduates,” Little explained.

Asagwara noted that during the facility tour, they encountered equipment that was not in use, which they plan to rectify. This proactive approach underscores the government’s commitment to improving emergency care in Hamiota and surrounding areas.

In conclusion, the meeting highlighted both the frustrations and hopes of Hamiota residents regarding emergency medical services. As Asagwara and local officials work together to address these challenges, the community remains vigilant and engaged in advocating for essential healthcare improvements.