It is certainly a positive to see pathology services, though decreased, remain in Bonnyville, considering a year ago the entire lab was on the brink of being closed down by Alberta Health Services (AHS), keeping in line with AHS plans to centralize health care. These plans have led to what many say are lacking services in rural Alberta.
Although the decision to reverse plans and keep the lab operating in Bonnyville was ultimately up to AHS, it certainly wasn't what the organization was originally aiming for. Rather, it was a push from and compromise by local doctors and municipal politicians that ensured this particular service stayed in rural Alberta, instead of being centralized in Edmonton.
Healthcare, like so many other social services intended to better the lives of individuals and entire communities, cannot within the current structure be administered throughout entire provinces from one or two central locations. Individuals and communities have particular needs that although they are generally similar, require specific tailoring to not only meet basic standards of practice, but also excel in providing such vital services.
Hats off to those taking an honest, open-minded and rational approach to protecting the interests of those outside of the larger centres, in communities like Bonnyville, Glendon and Cold Lake.
