Residents living in southern Labrador will benefit from enhanced diagnostic services with the installation of new medical equipment at the Labrador South Health Centre in Forteau. The Williams Government recently invested $200,000 for the purchase of a general x-ray unit for this facility.

"Our government is continuing to make significant investments in medical equipment for health care facilities across the province," said the Honourable Jerome Kennedy, Minister of Health and Community Services. "The equipment recently installed at the Labrador South Health Centre will ensure people in southern Labrador have access to essential diagnostic testing in, or as close to, their own community as possible."

The general x-ray unit, installed last month, has made significant improvements in service as clients experience increased comfort and physicians have access to better quality images. A new chemistry analyzer was also recently installed, which will result in more advanced laboratory testing at the health centre.

"The enhancements in diagnostic equipment at the Labrador South Health Centre will bring marked improvements in access to quality care for the residents of this part of the region," said Boyd Rowe, CEO, Labrador-Grenfell Health.  "This equipment has broadened the range and number of diagnostic tests we are now able to perform at this facility, and has also reduced physician waiting times for results.  This translates into improved quality and timelier care for our clients in the Labrador South area."

Since 2003, the Provincial Government has invested approximately $1.6 million in the Labrador South Health Centre for the purchase of capital equipment such as two new defibrillators, a cardiac monitor, resident lifts and a hand-held ultrasound machine. This funding also includes upgrades and renovations, including new water filtration and fire sprinkler systems and a new staff duplex unit.

Budget 2010: The Right Investments - For Our Children and Our Future includes an investment of $208.9 million for health care infrastructure throughout the province, including investments in new construction; redevelopment of existing facilities; purchase of new medical equipment; and, repairs and maintenance.