I am a retired native Calgarian living in Lac La Biche. I choose to live in rural Alberta because of life style, access to recreational opportunities and great health care. I volunteer on the Lakeland Health Advisory Committee as an advocate for AHS. We were allowed privileged access to the strategic and innovative strategies being employed by very dedicated Albertans in the Health Care Profession.
Under the leadership of Dr. Verna Yiu , a Provincial Rehabilitation Plan, focused on enhancing care in the Community, with measurable results your government has set the bar for Health Care in North America. The goal of achieving financial stability through operational best practice is achievable provided we embrace a culture that includes more than just acute care, primary care and reducing hospital costs. Nowhere does this resonate better than Northern rural Alberta. Mental Health, look at Fort McMurray, indigenous health, addictions support, supportive and long term care and chronic disease are integral to patients and families living in rural Alberta.
Why do I suggest this pandemic has a silver lining? Because Mr. Premier you have had the good fortune of observing and benefiting from an exceptional family of very dedicated health care professionals. At this time under unprecedented conditions, staff have ensured our people feel safe. When this is over, you need to ensure rural Albertans remain healthy and our Health Care Professionals remain valued.
I am in contact with our MLA for Fort. McMurray-Lac La Biche Laila Goodridge and she feels her concerns are being heard within the bureaucracy. Rural Northern Alberta is totally different from urban communities — and we are hurting.
I know as a past public servant, change is good — but right now people are upset about the uncertainty in rural northern Alberta.
Thank you for your consideration to these comments and my sole intention is to continue as an advocate.
Brydon Ward, vice chairperson
Lakeland Health Advisory Committee
