(August 4, 2021) – Pleaman Forsey, MHA for Exploits, says it’s been over a year since the Bay d’Espoir Community Health Centre lost its doctor and the Liberal government have yet to find a solution to the growing crisis.

“Emergency services shut down at the health centre in April 2020. On Tuesday, Central Health notified residents of the continued search for physicians and that the health centre ‘remains a priority’ for Central Health,” said Forsey.

“It’s now been 17 months since residents who rely on the health centre have been diverted to Grand Falls-Windsor, meaning more burden on the healthcare system elsewhere and lengthy travel for those who need help. Government has to find a solution to return emergency services to the region.”

Forsey says with emergency services at the Dr. Hugh Twomey Health Centre still suspended, it’s clear government is not prioritizing healthcare in Central Newfoundland.

“People who need emergency care are having to travel further and further for treatment in their most urgent time of need, yet the lack of emergency care continues with no end in sight. The people of Central Newfoundland are being forgotten by this government,” said Forsey.

“From the Health Science Centre in St. John’s, to the South Coast, to St. Anthony, the issues with the healthcare system have only risen since the Liberals came into power. The long waits at emergency rooms and lack of family doctors will continue to get worse unless Minister Haggie recognizes the crisis before the province.”

Contacts:

David Maher

Director of Communications

(p) (709) 769-2216

-30-