With both the Leaf Rapids Health Centre and Gillam Hospital closed temporarily until next month, MP Niki Ashton is urging the federal government to provide emergency medical services in the community in the mean time.
The Northern Health Region announced both facilities are closed due to ongoing, persistent staffing issues. During the closure, all the other clinical care or support will be given through Thompson or Lynn Lake.
In a letter the Indigenous Services Minister, Ashton says the facilities in the towns provide medical services to people from neighbouring communities, including many Indigenous patients.
She states all options must be considered, including bringing in medical personnel from the Canadian Armed Forces.
The Gillam Hospital is slated to reopen January 5th, while Leaf Rapids Health Centre is expected to reopen on January 10th.
