May 04, 2006

PINAWA—More than $1.7 million in construction is now underway for a community cancer program and other renovations at Pinawa Hospital that will enhance emergency and acute-patient care, Health Minister Tim Sale announced here today.

The tender for the project has been awarded to Arnason Industries Ltd. of Winnipeg.

"The redevelopment of health-care services including the creation of a local community cancer program will address local priorities for quality patient care here in Pinawa," said Sale. "These significant improvements are setting a course for the future of health care in this region and will provide area residents access to better care sooner and closer to home."

The community cancer program will operate in conjunction with CancerCare Manitoba and will focus on prevention, early detection and screening, diagnosis and treatment, and rehabilitation. Services will be delivered by health professionals specially trained in oncology and will include chemotherapy treatments.

"We are delighted with the opportunity to proceed with these renovations," said Margaret Mills, North Eastman Health Association board chair. "The enhancements to the hospital are needed and the creation of our community cancer care program will significantly improve access to these services for the residents of North Eastman."

The renovations to the hospital will also include mechanical, electrical and functional upgrades to emergency, patient-care and support areas.

Renovations are scheduled to be completed by late fall 2006.

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