Maples constituents deserve better care
Advertisement
Hey there, time traveller!
This article was published 15/01/2021 (868 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.
I hope all families in The Maples enjoyed a happy and safe holiday season. I look forward to a brighter year for all constituents in the area.
Many constituents of The Maples have contacted my office in the last year and explained how the consolidation of Dynacare services has only made their lives harder.
The consolidation of Dynacare centres has created longer commutes and wait times for Maples residents and Manitobans. Maples residents have shared that they have been forced to wait outside Dynacare facilities in order to be socially distanced from each other.
Over the last year, this consolidation of care has become disastrous. Diabetic patients who must fast before lab appointments should not then be forced to wait extended periods of time once at Dynacare centres. Seniors, folks with walkers, and Manitobans with various mobility needs have found these changes to their health care deplorable.
Manitobans expected the Pallister government to step up once these concerns were expressed, but they have been completely ignored.
Recently, someone in our community shared that their ongoing health issues require them to frequently visit Dynacare for bloodwork. Every time they go their family member has to take a half-day off work because of the long waits. The decision to consolidate Dynacare services impacts not only patients, but also their families as well.
Residents of The Maples and all Manitobans deserve better. We know that investing in health care services close to home is the best way to respond to our community’s health needs — this is something the Pallister government has continuously failed to do.
The government’s execution of its vaccine rollout has also been less than optimal. Rollout has been slow, chaotic and glitchy. Precious doses were wasted, clinics were closed for days in December, and Manitobans are waiting hours on the phone to book appointments. While the premier tries to cast blame on the federal government for lack of supply, thousands of doses continue to sit in fridges. Manitoba’s vaccine administration rate is one of the lowest in the country as this column is being written.
My colleagues and I will continue to advocate for quality health care close to home and a vaccine plan that is fast, effective and clearly communicated.
What are your thoughts and experiences with Dynacare and the vaccine rollout?
Let me know by contacting my office anytime at 204-417-3486 or by emailing mintu.sandhu@yourmanitoba.ca
Mintu Sandhu
The Maples constituency report
Mintu Sandhu is the NDP MLA for The Maples.