February 01, 2006

SWAN RIVER—Manitoba Health, the Parkland Regional Health Authority and Swan Valley Health Facilities will open the remaining 20 beds at the Swan Valley Health Centre, Premier Gary Doer announced here today.  

"Our investments in rural health-care services allow the regions to provide Manitobans with the care they need," said Doer. "We remain committed to supporting the work of the regional health authorities and health-care organizations to make sure all Manitobans have access to better care sooner and closer to home."

The hospital has been running close to 100 per cent occupancy with 32 beds since the new facility opened its doors in August 2005. Four of the 20 beds will be opened immediately, with the remaining beds opening as soon as possible.

"The Parkland Regional Health Authority is committed to work in partnership with others to reach its vision of ‘individuals, families and communities achieving the best possible health and wellness’. We remain committed to achieving the best possible health outcomes in an affordable and sustainable manner," said Merv Toderian, chair, Parkland Regional Health Authority.

"In order to provide the best possible care for the residents of our area, the board of directors has approved the opening of the remaining 20 beds as soon as possible. Only through the co-operation between Manitoba Health, Swan Valley Health Facilities and Parkland Regional Health Authority could this become a reality," said Jack Lumax, chair, Swan Valley Health Facilities.

Doer also presented a plaque to the Parkland Regional Health Authority and the Swan Valley Health Facilities Board to commemorate the construction of the new Swan Valley Health Centre.

The $33-million, 52 acute-care bed facility provides emergency room and in-patient medical/surgical services, as well as out-patient services such as chemotherapy and stress testing.

The centre also houses home-care, mental-health and public-health services as well as occupational therapy, physiotherapy and speech language pathology. Diagnostic services such as laboratory testing, ultrasound and diagnostic imaging are also available.

- 30 -