Health Minister Addresses Community Concerns in Hamiota Town Hall

HAMIOTA — On Friday, Health Minister Uzoma Asagwara visited Hamiota to address community concerns regarding the local 24-hour emergency care centre and various health-related issues. The meeting drew approximately 75 residents to the Hamiota Community Centre, where Asagwara spent an hour responding to questions and complaints.

One poignant moment came from Robin Johnston, a resident in his 80s, who shared the tragic story of his wife, Bette, who waited two and a half hours for an ambulance and subsequently passed away. “Everybody here should be cheering that we should have an ambulance,” Johnston remarked. “It would have saved my wife’s life.”

Acknowledging the community’s frustrations, Asagwara admitted, “We know there is a shortage. We agree — we think you should have an ambulance in your community. Absolutely.”

While some concerns were grave, not all feedback was negative. A resident praised the health-care system for successfully saving her father’s life, providing a glimpse of hope amid ongoing challenges. Asagwara highlighted the positive steps being taken, noting that a full class of paramedics is currently training at Red River College Polytechnic, with many students intending to work in rural Manitoba after graduation. “The work is happening, literally, right now as we speak,” he said, emphasizing a collective effort towards establishing a 24-7 emergency room.

Community Concerns and Future Solutions

The Hamiota Health Centre suspended full-time emergency services in 2019. According to recent data, the week of November 3-9, 2023, saw three days without emergency department services. After the town hall, Asagwara expressed the importance of engaging with the community, stating, “We felt it was very important to come out to Hamiota and hear directly from the community. It was the right thing to do.”

Mayor Randy Lints expressed satisfaction with the meeting, stating that Asagwara and his team appeared committed to addressing the community’s issues. “I like what I heard at the facility,” he remarked. Lints noted that the primary concerns revolve around the lack of lab staff and equipment, which disrupt emergency services.

During the visit, Jason Little, CEO of emergency response services for Shared Health, reiterated Asagwara’s optimism regarding the training of future paramedics. “This year we will have anywhere between 60 and 80 graduates, as long as everybody gets through,” he explained, with expectations for next year to see between 80 and 100 graduates.

Asagwara’s team identified a piece of essential equipment that had been neglected and stored in a closet during their tour. The minister committed to resolving these issues and ensuring that necessary equipment is accredited and made available to improve resources.

As the community of Hamiota grapples with its health care challenges, the visit from Minister Asagwara offers a reminder of the importance of dialogue and collaboration in seeking solutions. The commitment from provincial officials to acknowledge and address local concerns may pave the way for improved health services in the future.