By: Winnipeg Tribune Staff Writer
Winnipeg, May 10, 2024 - The Carberry Health Centre's emergency department, which had been shuttered due to staffing issues, is once again operational following the hiring of three new physicians, announced Premier Wab Kinew and Minister of Health, Seniors and Long-Term Care Uzoma Asagwara.
The reopening marks a significant turnaround for the rural community, which suffered not only a healthcare setback but also economic impacts after the previous government allowed the contract for Carberry’s sole physician to expire in September 2023. This led to the complete closure of the emergency services in the area. "When a rural community loses its physician, the impacts go beyond health care – it's a blow to the economic vitality and future of the town," said Premier Kinew. He emphasized that the lack of available healthcare was a critical issue his government vowed to rectify.
With the emergency department resuming services on April 27, and physicians starting on May 10, Carberry residents now have renewed access to essential health services. The recruited family physicians, who will work on a rotating basis, are also tasked with providing care at the community’s 36-bed long-term care facility and supporting individuals receiving inpatient care at the health center.
Minister Asagwara highlighted the community's role in the resurgence of their health services. "The people of Carberry’s spirit and determination to restore their health services made an impact on our government," Asagwara said. "We listened to their needs and worked alongside the community over months to bring physicians back to this community."
The local efforts were spearheaded by Carberry’s citizen-led Health Action Committee, which worked diligently to advocate for the return of medical services. Mayor Ray Muirhead expressed his gratitude towards the provincial government for their support and was optimistic about the future. "Our community was devastated by this loss," Muirhead said. "Citizens quickly came together to work on a plan to restore health services and we’re so grateful to the provincial government for their help in identifying physicians."