June 13, 1996
(Health)

Review of Health Services Planned for Central Newfoundland

A comprehensive review of the present and future health needs for central Newfoundland will be carried out in the coming months, said Health Minister Lloyd Matthews today. The announcement follows meetings held yesterday between the minister and the Central East Health Care Institutions Board, the Central West Health Care Institutions Board as well as the Central Newfoundland Community Health Board.

"I have met with all the boards responsible for health service delivery in the region and we will be working together in examining the kinds of health services we need and how best to organize those services to meet health needs in central Newfoundland," said Mr. Matthews. "This will allow us the opportunity to develop a coordinated and comprehensive approach to health service delivery in the context of health reform initiatives." The minister added the review will focus on a variety of health needs including acute care services, community based health delivery and long term care needs.

"Reform of the health system has been ongoing for the past number of years. We are seeing an increased demand for community based services while our dependence upon acute care services has diminished," said the minister. Within that context, it is necessary to re-evaluate the scope and extent of the James Paton Memorial Hospital project to determine whether existing plans are appropriate for the future or if the project requires some adjustments. The fact the project is delayed for one year will provide an opportunity to review health needs within the context of health reform. This will position government and the health boards to better respond to the current and future needs of the region.

A steering committee with representation from the two institutions boards, the community health board and government will be charged with carrying out the review. Input from users and providers of health services will be part of this process.

The minister will be available to answer questions about this announcement today at 11:00 a.m. in the Albatross hotel, Gander.

Contact: Jill Sooley, Department of Health, (709) 729-1377.