Mahsi, Mr. Speaker. I’m very pleased to hear the Minister of Health’s statement on the transformation of our health system, but today I want to let the Minister know that we simply must ensure that our residents in Fort Liard and Nahanni Butte’s health needs are taken care of. They want to be served by the BC Ministry of Northern Health in Fort Nelson, BC.
The Minister travelled with me in May and heard clearly from the residents that they are treated fairly and with care when they go to Fort Nelson. In fact, our residents have been treated in Fort Nelson for decades. They’re only asking to formalize the process, recognize the Fort Nelson Hospital as a point of service. This will then allow our region to refer and pay for the travel costs of our residents.
Having health services provided as close to home as possible will lower the costs of health care in my region. It’s a two and half hour drive from Fort Liard into Fort Nelson, as opposed to when they travel to Yellowknife it’s a two day travel.
I have been standing in this House for three terms asking our government and our Minister of Health to authorize Fort Liard and Nahanni Butte residents to receive their health care in Fort Nelson. We have an agreement with Alberta Health, and we use all their facilities. What will it take to have an agreement with the BC Ministry of Health to serve our residents in Fort Liard and Nahanni Butte?
I will have questions at the appropriate time. Mahsi cho.
Thank you, Mr. Menicoche. Member for Yellowknife Centre, Mr. Hawkins.
