Newsroom - Health

BC communities shape After School Sport Initiative success

2012-05-18T18:00:00Z

The Province of British Columbia's After School Sport Initiative provides children who typically face barriers with opportunities to have fun, learn and play sport.

The initiative provides funding to programs in selected schools during the 3 - 6 p.m. time period - a critical time when kids are often unsupervised and physically inactive.

The initiative, tailored to communities' unique needs and resources, is funded through the 2010 Sports and Arts Legacy and delivered through a variety of partnerships in selected schools in Haida Gwaii, Prince George, Surrey, Victoria and Vancouver. In the next two years, it will be expanded to up to 12 more communities. An arts and culture component will be added.

Through sport, children learn how to be healthier, develop valuable physical and social skills, and make friends.

“Through the After School Initiative, we can help students, who might be prevented from participating because of barriers such as transportation costs or fees, play and become passionate about sport," said Ida Chong, minister of community, sport and cultural development.

The Province recently hosted a community forum for After School Sports programmers so they could share their successes and lessons learned with others involved in this initiative.

"It's just great to see the children's excitement and see them racing to the gym," says Andie Pask, physical literacy coordinator with the Pacific Institute for Sport Excellence. "It's amazing to see their confidence blossom."

It's definitely filling a service gap.

"Without this funding, we would not be able to be offering the after-school opportunities four days a week for our kids," says Lori Burley, who is the principal at Tillicum Elementary school. Through this funding, her school services more than one hundred children after school.

The programming differs from place to place, custom-made to the students' needs.

"We tailor our program to address the unique needs of the children mainly by listening to them rather than pre-designing a program and implementing it whole scale," explains Lucy Neville, supervisor of the After School Sport initiative in Haida Gwaii. "We ask for their feedback as we're actually creating and developing the programming."

"We want every kid in B.C. to have positive self-esteem, a supportive network of friends and a safe place to develop their physical skills," says Minister Chong. "Sport helps them accomplish that.”

“Participation in sport and physical activity is valued and embraced as a way of life in British Columbia, sustained by a province-wide, balanced commitment to healthy, active lifestyles and the ethical pursuit of excellence.” -- BC's Policy on Sport and Physical Activity

Informed Dining program kicks off throughout B.C.

2012-05-16T16:15:00Z

VICTORIA - With the official launch of the Informed Dining program this week, British Columbians can now easily find important nutrition information when they eat out in restaurants throughout the Province.

Restaurant-goers can look for the Informed Dining logo at their favourite restaurants, or ask them to participate. Already nearly 300 restaurant outlets have signed up to participate in the program, which provides consumers with nutritional information similar to that found on packaged foods at the grocery store.

With British Columbians eating an average of one in ten meals at a restaurant or food service establishment, the Informed Dining program will help people make the healthy choice the easy choice. Calorie and sodium information will be prominently highlighted for all regular menu items, along with information on daily calorie and sodium needs, to help consumers understand the information.

To coincide with the launch of the program, a public awareness campaign began May 14, showcasing the participating restaurants and encouraging British Columbians to look for the Informed Dining logo. The campaign also invites British Columbians to visit a Healthy Families BC website - www.healthyfamiliesbc.ca/home/informed-dining - and take part in a contest with both weekly draws and a grand prize to cook like a chef and learn from a dietitian.

Although Informed Dining is a voluntary program, the Province is encouraging all restaurants in B.C. to take part. It is not too late for restaurants that are interested in participating in the program to sign up. For more information on joining the Informed Dining program, visit: www.healthyfamiliesbc.ca/home/informed-dining

Informed Dining is part of Healthy Families BC, the Province's campaign to promote healthy lifestyles and prevent chronic disease. It has been developed in collaboration with the Canadian Restaurant and Foodservices Association, the BC Restaurant and Foodservices Association, the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada, chain and independent restaurant leaders and public-health partners.

Quotes:

Minister of Health Michael de Jong -

"British Columbians have made it clear that they want information to help them make informed choices about what they and their families are eating. With Informed Dining, we are partnering with B.C. restaurants to help make the healthy choice the easy choice. Look for the logo in restaurants in your community to learn more."

Ian Tostenson, CEO and president, BC Restaurant and Foodservices Association -

"I am proud that we have about 300 outlets across the province signed up to participate in this important program. I know that other businesses will continue to learn more about Informed Dining and sign up - this information is what our customers have been telling us they want, and it is our responsibility to provide it."

Gavin Arthur, vice president, research and health promotion, Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada -

"Healthy eating is a critical element in living a long and healthy life and avoiding cardiovascular disease. The Informed Dining program takes a positive step forward in providing people with information they can use in making informed choices while dining out."

Mark von Schellwitz, vice-president, Canadian Restaurant and Foodservices Association -

"We want to be part of the solution in making healthy choices, easy choices in B.C. This program has the potential to help restaurant patrons become more conscious about what they are eating - it also shines a light on those establishments already providing menu nutrition content while encouraging other restaurants to follow suit."

Quick Facts:

According to the BCRFA, there are about 12,000 restaurants in British Columbia.
Nutrition labelling of pre-packaged food is already regulated by Health Canada.
Cardiovascular disease, diabetes and cancer are estimated to cost our health-care system between $730 million and $830 million per year.
Reducing sodium intake could prevent up to 23,500 cardiovascular events, such as heart attack and stroke per year, and could generate direct savings of $1.38 billion annually.
The Canadian Council of Food and Nutrition reported that in 2006, of all the money spent on food in Canada, 40 per cent is spent in food service outlets.
People who eat more sodium than needed are at greater risk from high blood pressure, which is a major risk factor for stroke, heart disease and kidney disease.
British Columbians consume more than double the amount of sodium considered adequate to promote good health in B.C., as recommended by Health Canada.

A backgrounder follows.

Media Contact:

Ryan Jabs
Media Relations Manager
Ministry of Health
250 952-1887

BACKGROUNDER

Informed Dining - participating restaurants

There are about 300 restaurant outlets in the province that have already signed up to participate in the Informed Dining program. More restaurants will be added in the future, so check back regularly at: www.healthyfamiliesbc.ca/home/informed-dining

Current participating restaurants are:

A&W, multiple outlets
Little Caesar's, multiple outlets
De Dutch, multiple outlets
The Boathouse, multiple outlets
The Reef, Victoria and Vancouver
The Swiftsure Restaurant and Lounge, Victoria
Joseph's Coffee House, Victoria
Heidi's Restaurant, Cranbrook
El Taco, multiple outlets
Mountain Eagle Books, Smithers
Thai Away Restaurants Ltd., Vancouver
H.A.V.E. Cafe, Vancouver
Spinnakers Gastro Brewpub, Victoria

Media Contact:

Ryan Jabs
Media Relations Manager
Ministry of Health
250 952-1887

Province supports technologies for people with disabilities

2012-05-15T19:15:00Z

VICTORIA - The Province is committed to supporting greater access to communications technologies for people with disabilities and is pleased to fund the Communication Assistance for Youth and Adults (CAYA) project.

At today's demonstration of the technology, Social Development Minister Stephanie Cadieux underscored how CAYA's innovative technology solutions help people with communication disabilities participate more fully in their communities.

For people who do not have the capacity for functional speech, CAYA provides the ability to communicate. Using technology, these individuals can do things that most take for granted - speaking on the phone, ordering food in a restaurant, using Skype and participating in group conversations. Communication devices like Dynawrite, Vantage and other tools help CAYA clients work, volunteer, learn and build friendships that contributes to greater independence and an improved quality of life.

The Province has committed $5.7 million in funding over the next three years, bringing the total provincial contribution for CAYA to more than $15 million since 2005.

CAYA provides equipment and services to adults and youth aged 19 or older with complex communication disabilities. Since 2005, CAYA has provided approximately 630 British Columbians with communications technologies.

The goal of CAYA is to ensure that eligible individuals have access to the communication tools and professional support to enable them to create an adult life to the best of their abilities.

Quotes:

Minister of Social Development Stephanie Cadieux -

"By using the equipment and services that CAYA provides, people with communication disabilities are able to participate more fully in the social and economic life of B.C."

"For people who have previously been unable to speak, this is amazing technology. It gives them a voice and lets them be more involved in community life."

Jeff Riley, manager, Communication Assistance for Youth and Adults -

"The stable funding for CAYA announced in the 2012-13 B.C. Budget is excellent news for British Columbians who cannot speak. The inability or loss of speech is perhaps the most isolating disability an individual can ever face."

"Talking with others is how we build family, friends, and lives. The restoration of functional communication through modern technology and professional supports, opens the doors to participation in the human family, and shows the world who we truly are."

April Proudlove, CAYA client -

"Without my communication device, no one would know what I have to say."

Quick Facts:

About 640,000 people with disabilities live in B.C., and about 4,480 of these individuals are living with a communication disability.
CAYA has assisted approximately 630 people with communications disabilities with equipment enabling them to speak and will help approximately 270 more over the next three years.
CAYA clients have either never had or have recently lost the capacity for functional speech due to problems at birth or early life (cerebral palsy) or genetic conditions (Down's syndrome) or acquired conditions (traumatic brain injury).

Learn More:

For more information on CAYA, visit: http://www.cayabc.org/

For more information on the Employment Program of British Columbia, which provides services to individuals with disabilities, visit: www.workbccentres.ca

Contact:

David Haslam
Communications Manager
Ministry of Social Development
250 356-1670

Drinking Water Report highlights progress made

2012-05-15T17:45:00Z

VICTORIA - Provincial health officer Dr. Perry Kendall released the 2011 Progress Report on the Action Plan for Safe Drinking Water in British Columbia today, outlining progress made and highlighting areas for additional improvement in the province's drinking water systems.

The report covers programs during the 2007-08 and 2008-09 fiscal years, and is a mandated function of the PHO under the Drinking Water Protection Act. During this reporting period, drinking water officers conducted more than 4,800 water system inspections and government provided $935,000 to assist in 101 planning projects.

The report highlights progress made on the Province's drinking water quality goals set out in the Action Plan for Safe Drinking Water. For example:

No community outbreaks of water-borne illness related to drinking water systems were reported during the reporting period.
The number of water systems with valid operating permits increased by over 1,000 to a total of 4,539 in March 2009. In addition, the number of systems with an emergency response plan increased from under 1,500 in 2007 to over 2,500 in 2009.
The number of boil-water advisories increased from 480 in 2006 to 604 in March 2009, reflecting increased emphasis on assessing small systems and ensuring that those failing to meet safety criteria were issuing appropriate advisories to their customers.
Regulations under the Environmental Management Act were introduced or updated and include measures that will serve to protect drinking water.
The Ministry of Environment continued to develop water quality guidelines for specific water quality variables in source water, and established water quality objectives to protect the most sensitive water use at a specific location.
During the reporting period, the Ministry of Community and Rural Development provided 101 grants to communities to help them plan for improvements to their drinking water systems.
Regional drinking water teams were established in each of the regional health authorities to ensure co-ordination across ministries.
The Water Action Plan for B.C. was finalized.

Despite this progress, there remain challenges that continue to need further work. For example, data collection and reporting at a regional and provincial level continues to be an issue. However, health authorities have been working to make improvements to their information management systems.

In addition, there remains a lack of drinking water infrastructure in some smaller communities. However, protocols do exist to allow transfer of water systems to local government as local service areas, with full access to infrastructure grants.

Drinking water quality is crucial to the health and safety of British Columbians - the Province and health authorities are always working to make sure B.C.'s drinking water is safe and looking for ways to improve processes. Through the Ministry of Health and the regional health authorities, policies and regulations under the Drinking Water Protection Act continue to be refined to address known and emerging issues, and maintain high drinking water quality standards.

Quote:

Dr. Perry Kendall, provincial health officer -

"Government continues to make progress to protect and improve the health of British Columbia's drinking water systems, though there remains more work to do. Here in B.C., we have over 4,550 water systems, the vast majority of which are small systems. It is important that we continue to work with operators to help them maintain water safety."

Quick Facts:

The eight principles of the Drinking Water Action Plan are:

The safety of drinking water is a public health issue.
Source protection is a critical part of drinking water protection.
Providing safe drinking water requires an integrated approach.
All water systems need to be thoroughly assessed to determine risks.
Proper treatment and water distribution system integrity are important to protect human health.
Tap water must meet acceptable safety standards and be monitored.
Small systems require a flexible system with safeguards.
Safe drinking water should be affordable, with users paying appropriate costs.

Throughout the Province ,there are more than 4,550 drinking water systems: 478 in the Fraser Health Authority, 746 in the Vancouver Island Health Authority, 1,114 in the Northern Health Authority, 361 in Vancouver Coastal Health Authority, and 1,851 in the Interior Health Authority.

Of those 4,550 systems, 225 serve more than 300 individual connections, 997 serve between 15 and 300 connections and 3,328 serve less than 15 connections.

Learn More:

Read the full drinking water report at: www.health.gov.bc.ca/pho/reports/drinkingwater.html

Read more about drinking water in B.C. and the Drinking Water Protection Act at: www.health.gov.bc.ca/protect/dw_index.html

Media Contact:

Ryan Jabs
Media Relations Manager
Ministry of Health
250 952-1887 (media line)

West Vancouver seniors' housing under redevelopment

2012-05-12T22:30:00Z

WEST VANCOUVER - Seniors in West Vancouver are one step closer to more new affordable housing in their community after today's groundbreaking for the $44.8-million redevelopment of Kiwanis Garden Village. When complete, the site will feature more than 300 below-market priced apartments.

"Our government is helping to provide more affordable housing options for seniors in West Vancouver and across British Columbia," said John Weston, Member of Parliament for West Vancouver - Sunshine Coast - Sea to Sky Country, on behalf of the Honourable Diane Finley, Minister of Human Resources and Skills Development and Minister Responsible for Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC). "The construction of Kiwanis Garden Village means more seniors can continue to live independently while remaining in and contributing to the community they call home."

"The Kiwanis Seniors Housing Society of West Vancouver deserves to be congratulated on this much-needed seniors housing project," said Ralph Sultan, MLA for West Vancouver-Capilano. "Kiwanis has repeatedly demonstrated their experience and skill in leveraging available Kiwanis resources, and the financial resources of the provincial government, to build safe and affordable housing for seniors on the North Shore."

Kiwanis Garden Village, located on Haywood Ave., has been operating for more than five decades under the ownership and management of the Kiwanis Seniors Housing Society of West Vancouver. In 1998, they sold a portion of the site to Vancouver Coastal Health to build the Kiwanis Manor, located at 959 - 21st St. in the southeast corner of the Kiwanis Garden Village lot.

This final phase of redevelopment replaces six recently demolished older residences and will see the construction of two wood-frame buildings with 139 new apartments of affordable seniors' housing. Extensive re-landscaping will tie the two new residences to the two existing buildings. In addition, there will be common amenity space including a multi-purpose room, a lounge, a kitchen and a meeting room/library.

"Kiwanis Garden Village has been a cornerstone of our community for many decades," said Mayor Michael Smith of the District of West Vancouver. "I look forward to seeing this redevelopment progress and create these beautiful new homes for West Vancouver seniors. We congratulate Kiwanis for their great community work."

The Government of Canada provided a $10,000 SEED funding grant and a $10,000 SEED funding loan through Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation. The Province of British Columbia will provide approximately $16.3 million in financing. The District of West Vancouver waived fees and charges of approximately $870,000 in support of the project. The Kiwanis Seniors Housing Society of West Vancouver provided $8.6 million in equity as well as the land, valued at approximately $19 million.

"Today is a proud day not only for our society, but also for seniors in our entire community," said Bob Heaslip, president of the Kiwanis Seniors Housing Society. "I want to thank all the partners who have made this possible. Together we are building a better future for seniors living in West Vancouver."

Over the last decade, the Province has invested $2.8 billion to provide affordable housing for low-income individuals, seniors and families. This year, more than 95,000 B.C. households will benefit from provincial social housing programs and services. To find out more, visit: www.bchousing.org

The Kiwanis Seniors Housing Society of West Vancouver has a mandate to establish and maintain affordable housing for the community's low-income seniors. To find out more about Kiwanis Garden Village, visit: www.westvankiwanishousing.org

Media contacts:

Andrea Scott
CMHC Communications
604 737-4064

Seumas Gordon
BC Housing
604 439-4789
604 417-5791

Jessica Delaney
District of West Vancouver
604 925-4736
604 360-8131 (cell)

Alyson Queen
Press Secretary
Office of Minister Finley
819 994-2482

B.C. leads Canada with ParticipACTION partnership

2012-05-10T19:30:00Z

VICTORIA - The Province today announced the formalization of the first provincial partnership with the national, non-profit organization ParticipACTION to further promote healthy living and physical activity in British Columbia.

Health Minister Michael de Jong and ParticipACTION president and CEO Kelly Murumets made the announcement today, Move for Health Day, by joining elementary school children for a fun lunchtime workout.

From 1971, the ParticipACTION name has been the brand behind which millions of Canadians have rallied to promote activity, fitness and healthy living. The partnership will build on British Columbia's reputation for leading Canada in making the country the healthiest on Earth.

The Province is supporting the announcement with the investment of $6 million in the partnership with ParticipACTION.

ParticipACTION will work with B.C.'s Ministry of Health in the planning and development of ParticipACTION's new social marketing campaign that will continue to inspire and support parents to get their children and families more physically active.

ParticipACTION will augment the national campaign with a B.C.-specific co-branded strategy, which includes an integrated community engagement and social media approach that will target B.C. communities. ParticipACTION will also engage B.C. organizations and communities in the third annual Sports Day in Canada on Sept. 29, 2012. ParticipACTION and the Province will develop and implement an annual plan that integrates and profiles the partnership activities that will be unveiled in the coming months.

"Unless immediate actions are taken today, British Columbia's students may be the first generation to have a shorter life span than their parents," said de Jong. "Physical activity is one way to combat obesity and increase life expectancy, and that is why we are bringing ParticipACTION to B.C. This partnership will help create a healthier, happier British Columbia."

"An active British Columbia is a strong and prosperous British Columbia," said Murumets. "Through this innovative model of federal/provincial/territorial collaboration, we will work together to support and encourage B.C. families to move more, every day. With the role that physical activity plays in promoting health, longevity, academic readiness, mental health and social cohesion, a society that moves more is a society that thrives."

The partnership supports Healthy Families BC, a public-health strategy that addresses chronic disease - such as diabetes, heart disease and cancer - and obesity prevention among British Columbian families and communities with a focus on healthy eating and physical activity. Visit Healthy Families BC online at: www.healthyfamiliesbc.ca

About ParticipACTION:

ParticipACTION is the national voice of physical activity and sport participation in Canada. Originally established in 1971, ParticipACTION was re-launched in 2007 to help prevent the looming inactivity crisis that faces Canada.

As a national not-for-profit organization solely dedicated to inspiring and supporting healthy and active living for Canadians, it works with its partners, which include sport, physical activity, recreation organizations, government and corporate sponsors, to inspire and support Canadians to move more.

ParticipACTION is generously supported by Sport Canada. For more information, visit: www.participACTION.com

A backgrounder follows.

Contacts:

Ryan Jabs
Media Relations Manager
Ministry of Health
250 952-1887 (media line)

Katherine Janson
PR & Communications Manager
ParticipACTION (Toronto)
416 913-1471

Andrew Leyne
H+K Strategies
andrew.leyne@hkstrategies.com
250 818-2557

BACKGROUNDER

ParticipACTION

Physical activity can lead to a healthier, longer life

Physical activity helps to prevent chronic diseases like various forms of cancer, Type 2 diabetes and heart disease.

Evidence shows that if we are physically active, achieve and maintain a healthy body weight, enjoy a healthy diet and refrain from smoking, we can reduce our risk factors for most chronic diseases by up to 80 per cent. In turn, living a longer, healthier, happier life and saving millions annually in health-care associated costs.

Physical inactivity is the number-one factor contributing to the obesity of men and women. Only 15 per cent of Canadian adults get the 150 minutes of moderate- to vigorous-intensity physical activity required per week for health benefits. While only seven per cent of Canadian children and youth get the 60 minutes of moderate- to vigorous-intensity physical activity required each day for health benefits.

British Columbia has the lowest rates of overweight and obese adult in the country at about 45 per cent.

Childhood overweight and obesity rates are rising in Canada. British Columbia has the lowest incidence of childhood obesity in the county. However, B.C. is in the middle of the pack when assessing the levels of overweight children in Canada.

Obesity rates in children have almost tripled in the last 25 years. Approximately 26 per cent of Canadian children aged 2-17 years are currently overweight or obese.

In British Columbia, 51,000 children (seven per cent) aged 2-17 years were classified as obese and 138,500 (20 per cent) as overweight.

About 2,000 British Columbians die prematurely every year due to obesity-related illnesses, such as heart disease, high blood pressure and diabetes.

Obesity-related illnesses cost the British Columbia health system an estimated $380 million annually, or 4.5 per cent of total direct health-care costs in the province.

When productivity losses due to obesity, including premature death, absenteeism and disability, are added, the total cost of obesity to the British Columbia economy is estimated at between $730 million and $830 million a year.

Obese Canadians are four times more likely to have diabetes, 3.3 times more likely to have high blood pressure and 56 per cent more likely to have heart disease than those with healthy weights. Obese individuals are 50 to 100 per cent more likely to die prematurely from all causes than those with healthy weights

Contacts:

Ryan Jabsz
Media Relations Manager
Ministry of Health
250 952-1887 (media line)

Katherine Janson
PR & Communications Manager
ParticipACTION (Toronto)
416 913-1471

Andrew Leyne
H+K Strategies
andrew.leyne@hkstrategies.com
250 818-2557

Coroners Service confirms identity of deceased boaters

2012-05-07T23:36:00Z

PRINCE GEORGE - The BC Coroners Service has confirmed the identity of two women who died following a jet-boating incident near Prince George on May 6, 2012.

The two were among four persons on a jet-boat that capsized on the Willow River about 40 km northeast of Prince George on the afternoon of May 6. The other two occupants of the boat were able to make it to safety, but the two women were unable to do so.

One body was recovered on the evening on May 6 downstream from the site of the incident. The second body was recovered on the morning of May 7 near a logjam at the site of the capsizing.

The two have been identified as Christy Schwing, 31, and Carolyn Simpson, 43. Both resided in Prince George.

The families of Ms. Schwing and Ms. Simpson have been notified. On behalf of the families, the Coroners Service asks that the media respect their privacy.

The BC Coroners Service offers its condolences to the families and friends of Ms. Schwing and Ms. Simpson, and its appreciation for the work done by search-and-rescue crews, volunteers and RCMP in the search and recovery efforts.

Contact:

Coroner Donita Kuzma
Regional Coroner, Northern Region
BC Coroners Service
250 565-6040

Athletic Commissioner Act introduced in the House

2012-05-07T20:55:00Z

VICTORIA - The Province is taking steps to establish a Provincial Athletic Commissioner, who would regulate and supervise professional contests such as boxing, kick-boxing and mixed martial arts.

Community, Sport and Cultural Development Minister Ida Chong introduced Bill 50 - Athletic Commissioner Act - in the legislature today.

The proposed act would establish a consistent framework to oversee the conduct of these professional events throughout the province. This legislation would not apply to amateur contests.

The commissioner's primary focus would be to ensure the safety of competitors and officials.

If local governments do not want such contests to take place in their communities, they would be able to prohibit these events by passing a bylaw.

Quotes:

Ida Chong, Minister of Community, Sport and Cultural Development -

"The benefit of having a provincial athletic commissioner would be that every professional contest would be subject to the same rules and regulations, whether it was being held in Vancouver, Nanaimo or Vernon."

"Since sports such as kick-boxing and mixed martial arts are very popular and are taking place without a consistent regulatory framework, it makes sense to be proactive about creating this position to increase the safety of athletes and officials, as well as to provide certainty for communities and the industry."

Quick Facts:

The role of the commissioner would be to oversee the conduct of professional contests such as boxing, kick-boxing and mixed martial arts throughout the province, with a key focus on the safety of competitors and officials.

The key duties of the commissioner would be to:

Ensure a consistent standard of qualifications and safety protocols for all participants and officials through a uniform licensing and permitting framework.
Ensure compliance with the proposed act and its regulations, through the use of suspension or cancellation of licences and event permits, as well as administrative penalties.

The Community Charter and the Vancouver Charter now provide for the establishment of local athletic commissions to authorize public events. Such athletic commissions may regulate professional boxing and similar activities, contests and exhibitions.

At least nine B.C. municipalities currently have athletic commissions. If the Province establishes an athletic commissioner, both the Community Charter and Vancouver Charter will be amended to remove the authority to create local commissions.

Contact:

Jeff Rud
Communications Director
Ministry of Community, Sport and Cultural Development
250 208-4028

Amendments strengthen emergency services

2012-05-07T20:55:00Z

VICTORIA - Co-ordination of emergency health services in British Columbia will be enhanced with the introduction today of Bill 48.

The Emergency and Health Services Amendment Act, 2012 follows amendments from the spring of 2010 that started the process of integrating ambulance and emergency health services in B.C. more closely with the broader health-care system.

The Emergency & Health Services Commission will continue as British Columbia Emergency Health Services (BCEHS), and will be aligned with the Provincial Health Services Authority (PHSA). BCEHS will continue with its core mandate of providing provincial ambulance and emergency health services, with support from PHSA.

Other provisions in the BCEHS mandate include urgent health services and ancillary health services to support the integration of emergency medical assistants (EMAs), or paramedics, into the broader health sector.

Bill 48 allows for closer co-operation between BCEHS and health authorities in improving patient safety and quality of care. This change recognizes the important role played by paramedics and first responders in overall patient care and reinforces the fact that ambulance services are often the first point of contact.

Quotes:

Minister of Health Michael de Jong -

"With this legislation, we will complete a commitment from 2010 to integrate emergency health services and as a consequence taxpayers will benefit from a more efficient system overall."

Provincial Health Services Authority president and chief executive officer, Lynda Cranston -

"The Provincial Health Services Authority will provide support to British Columbia Emergency Health Services as it continues its role as the first point of contact for people needing emergency care in British Columbia."

BC Emergency Health Services president, Michael MacDougall -

"This new legislation will allow paramedics and first responders to continue to provide quality care to those in need around British Columbia. We also look forward to working with the Province in working towards new roles and responsibilities for our health professionals across the province."

Media Contact:

Ryan Jabs
Media Relations Manager
Ministry of Health
250 952-1887 (media line)

Improving mental health supports for families

2012-05-07T15:25:00Z

VICTORIA - It's a surprising statistic for many British Columbians: one in seven children and youth in B.C. struggles with a mental health challenge that interferes with their daily lives and their relationships with friends and relatives.

Today has been declared Child and Youth Mental Health Day in B.C. in order to raise the importance of mental health in healthy child development and the need to provide accessible and effective support and care for those children and youth experiencing mental health challenges and their families.

Government is working with community partners to improve supports for children and youth and their families as part of the implementation of Healthy Minds, Healthy People - A 10-Year Plan to Address Mental Health and Substance Use in B.C.

The Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Children and Family Development are co-chairing a task force with The F.O.R.C.E. - Families Organized for Recognition and Care Equality - Society for Kids' Mental Health, which is leading development on a family mental health framework.

Government has provided funding for development of the framework, which identifies the mental health promotion needs of families affected by mental health challenges, and outlines potential strategies to address those needs and improve the mental health and wellbeing of all family members.

The framework will be officially unveiled by The F.O.R.C.E. at an international mental health conference tonight in Vancouver.

A variety of national and international clinicians, physicians, researchers, policy makers and front-line workers are attending the conference (May 6-8) to help gain a better understanding of the mental health needs of young people and their families when a family member is experiencing mental health challenges, and how to better support them.

Quotes:

Mary McNeil, Minister of Children and Family Development -

"Collaboration among a wide range of partners, representing all sectors of society, is a key part in our efforts to improve outcomes for children, youth and families experiencing mental health challenges. Through our work with The F.O.R.C.E., we're looking at what is best for families as a whole, as well as supporting individual family members struggling with a mental disorder."

Keli Anderson, executive director, The F.O.R.C.E. Society for Kids' Mental Health -

"The F.O.R.C.E. has led Child and Youth Mental Health Day since 2007 when it was first launched in B.C. The Ministry of Children and Family Development has supported the day each year and this year we've appreciated their participation in the creation of a family mental health framework being unveiled at the Child and Youth Mental Health Matters Conference on May 7."

Quick Facts:

Current estimates suggest approximately 130,000 children and youth in B.C. experience mental disorders serious enough to negatively impact their daily functioning.
Three of the most common disorders among children and youth are anxiety, attention-deficit disorder and depression.
Mental health problems frequently begin early in a person's life, with approximately half starting by age 15 and three-quarters by age 24.
Healthy Minds, Healthy People -a 10-year plan to address mental health and substance use across the lifespan - places a strong emphasis on identifying challenges early and intervening appropriately to support healthy development and set the stage for a fulfilling and productive life.
With approximately $94 million invested annually, the Ministry of Children and Family Development offers a range of programs to prevent and address mental health challenges in children, including:

Community-based services.
School-based services such as the FRIENDS For Life anxiety prevention program.
Specialized services for those youth involved in the justice system.
Residential, non-residential and outreach services for youth who have significant psychiatric and behavioural difficulties.

Learn More:

For more detailed information on Child and Youth Mental Health programs and services in the province, go to: http://www.mcf.gov.bc.ca/mental_health/

Read Healthy Minds, Healthy People, B.C.'s mental health plan released in fall 2010: www.health.gov.bc.ca/library/publications/year/2010/healthy_minds_healthy_people.pdf

Learn more about the Child and Youth Mental Health Matters Conference: http://www.interprofessional.ubc.ca/CYMHM/

The F.O.R.C.E. Society for Kids' Mental Health: http://www.forcesociety.com/

Contact:

Shae Greenfield
Media Relations Manager
Ministry of Children and Family Development
250 356-1639

BC Coroners Service confirms identity of deceased male

2012-05-04T22:20:00Z

VANCOUVER - The BC Coroners Service has confirmed the identity of a male found deceased near Norvan Falls, a North Vancouver wilderness recreational area.

On May 2, 2012, hikers discovered a body in a small creek just above Norvan Falls and notified authorities. The BC Coroners Service, assisted by North Vancouver RCMP Detachment, the RCMP's Lower Mainland Emergency Response Team, Vancouver Police Missing Persons Unit and Metro Vancouver Parks Rangers undertook a complex recovery operation. At the conclusion of this operation, the body was transported to Vancouver General Hospital.

A forensic dental comparison has confirmed the remains to be those of Brian Safari Mbaruk, aged 20 years, of Vancouver.

Preliminary results from a multi-agency investigation and an autopsy indicate that Mr. Mbaruk's death was a result of a hiking accident. Foul play has been ruled out.

Mr. Mbaruk was reported missing to the Vancouver Police Department on Nov. 19, 2011, one day after he had last been seen alive. He was known to enjoy hiking in the area of Lynn Creek in North Vancouver.

The family of Mr. Mbaruk has been notified of his death. On behalf of the family, the BC Coroners Service asks that the media respect the family's privacy.

For further information, please contact:

Coroner Marj Paonessa
Acting Regional Coroner, Metro Region
BC Coroners Service
604 660-7708

Supportive housing for women and children opens in Surrey

2012-05-04T21:15:00Z

SURREY - Single mothers and their children who were at risk of homelessness have moved into their new home at YWCA Alder Gardens, a new 36-unit supportive housing development in Surrey.

The project is funded by:

The Government of Canada through $461,026 under the Homelessness Partnering Strategy.

The Province provided a grant of almost $9 million and will provide annual operational funding of $ 212,311.

The City of Surrey provided land equity valued at $1.4 million as well as municipal levy reduction of $1.1 million.

YWCA Metro Vancouver and its supporters provided equity of $556,974 for the project.

YWCA Metro Vancouver manages and operates the building and provides support services that include tools and resources for residents to build their economic independence and prevent future homelessness. A property manager will be on-site and a support worker with strong links in the community will refer residents to local programs for children, youth and families.

YWCA Alder Gardens, located at 13788 - 71st Ave., is the first project to be complete under an agreement between the Province and the City of Surrey to create 103 new supportive housing units on city-owned sites to reduce homelessness in Surrey. The building includes a mix of two-, three- and four-bedroom apartments, common amenity space, an outdoor play areas and community meeting spaces.

Quotes:

Nina Grewal, MP for Fleetwood-Port Kells -

"The Government of Canada is giving a hand-up to Canadians with housing needs and is helping those seeking to break free from the cycle of homelessness and poverty. We are pleased to have partnered with the YWCA Metro Vancouver to help prevent and reduce homelessness among women and children in the community."

Stephanie Cadieux, Minister of Social Development and MLA for Surrey-Panorama -

"The Province's investment in this building will benefit single mothers, children and the Surrey-Newton community today and into the future. YWCA Alder Gardens is more than just an apartment building for the families living here. It's their home and a secure place where they are free to enjoy their lives and fulfil their potential."

Mayor Dianne Watts, City of Surrey -

"Today's opening event for YWCA Alder Gardens represents the commitment from three levels of government to create housing that supports families most in need. This project is very important for the City as it is the first building to be completed under our agreement with the Province to build supportive housing for those most in need in Surrey."

Janet Austin, CEO, YWCA Metro Vancouver -

"YWCA Metro Vancouver would not be able to carry out the work we do without the dedication and commitment of our partners, donors and community supporters. We are thrilled to welcome the new residents of YWCA Alder Gardens who, with access to the broad range of YWCA services and supports, can work towards making a successful transition to economic independence. I would like to acknowledge our government partners and donors for making this new building an affordable housing option for our clients and their families.

Quick Facts:

Over the last decade, the Province has invested $2.8 billion to provide affordable housing for low-income individuals, seniors and families. This year, more than 95,000 B.C. households will benefit from provincial social housing programs and services.

In 2010-11, the Province invested over $48 million to provide subsidized housing and rent supplements for more than 6,800 Surrey households.

The Homelessness Partnering Strategy (HPS) is a unique community-based program aimed at preventing and reducing homelessness by providing direct support and funding to 61 designated communities across Canada. The HPS took effect April 1, 2007, with annual funding of $134.8 million for two years.

In September 2008, the Government of Canada committed to investing more than $1.9 billion in housing and homelessness programs over five years, until March 2014. This includes a renewal of the HPS until March 2014.

As of April 23, 2012, a total of 1,984 approved projects totalling over $670 million were funded under the HPS to prevent and reduce homelessness in Canada.

YWCA Metro Vancouver is a registered charity, providing a range of integrated services for women and their families, and those seeking to improve the quality of their lives. From early learning and care to housing, health and fitness, employment services and leadership, YWCA Metro Vancouver touches lives in communities.

Learn More:

To learn more about provincial programs and services to address homelessness, visit: www.bchousing.org/Initiatives/Creating/PHI

For more information on the Homelessness Partnering Strategy and the seven funding streams, please visit: www.hrsdc.gc.ca/homelessness.

To learn more about programs and services offered by YWCA Metro Vancouver, please visit: www.ywcavan.org.

Contact:

Seumas Gordon
BC Housing
604 439-4789

Tara Foslien
City of Surrey
604 375-4584

Media Relations Office
Human Resources and Skills Development Canada
819-994-5559

Marian Ngo
Office of Minister Finley
819-994-2482

Grand opening of new youth safe house in Nanaimo

2012-05-04T18:30:00Z

NANAIMO - The Ministry of Children and Family Development (MCFD) and Tillicum Lelum Aboriginal Friendship Society are celebrating the grand opening of a new safe house for vulnerable teens in Nanaimo, which doubles the capacity of the former youth safe house.

The old facility, which had been operating out of a house on the same lot, offered four beds for at-risk youth between the ages of 14 and 19. The newly opened facility is able to provide eight beds, two full washrooms, a bigger kitchen space with brand new amenities and a large patio. In addition, the new facility is wheelchair accessible.

The safe house provides short-term protective accommodation on an emergency basis to youth who want to leave the streets or other unsafe situations. Youth have a safe place to sleep at night and supportive staff members are there to help connect youth to services to meet their longer term needs.

MCFD invested $375,000 in capital funding (2010-11 funding) for the $750,000 project. The Vancouver Island Health Authority provided $100,000 and the balance of the construction costs were financed by Tillicum Lelum Aboriginal Friendship Society. The City of Nanaimo waived development fees of $16,500.

MCFD also provides $325,000 in annual operational funding for the safe house, with a new three-year funding contract signed this year.

Access to the service is either by self-referral or by referral from the ministry. The stay can be anywhere from an overnight to up to two weeks, based on the individual's circumstances and need.

The groundbreaking was celebrated in June 2011 by all partners. Construction started in September 2011 and was completed in March 2012.

Quotes:

Mary McNeil, Minister of Children and Family Development -

"When youth are on the street, or in other at-risk situations, we need to work together as a caring society and do everything we can to take them out of that situation, offer them a safe and supportive place to go and receive the help they need."

"We are honoured to support this important and worthwhile project, which will provide a safe, caring environment for at-risk youth on Vancouver Island for years to come."

Ron Cantelon, MLA for Parksville-Qualicum -

"Our government remains committed to helping to ensure the safety and well-being of vulnerable youth in communities across B.C."

"The existing youth safe house already offered excellent assistance to teenagers in this community, and now with double the capacity in a brand new facility, it can provide even more help to those in need."

Mayor John Ruttan, City of Nanaimo -

"The City of Nanaimo is pleased to be a part of such an important capital project, which will make it possible for more local youth to get the help and resources they need when they are struggling with homelessness or other issues."

"This youth safe house provides a helping hand and a compassionate response which is so important in assisting young people to move forward into a happier, healthier space, and regain hope and strength."

Grace Elliott Nielsen, executive director, Tillicum Lelum Aboriginal Friendship Society -

"Investing in our youth ensures a healthy future for all. I want to thank the Ministry of Children and Family Development, Vancouver Island Health Authority and the City of Nanaimo for their continued support."

Allison Cutler, executive director, Population and Community Health, Vancouver Island Health Authority -

"We are very happy to work in partnership with the B.C. government and Tillicum Lelum on this extremely valuable capital project, which will help boost the safety, health and well-being of at-risk youth on Vancouver Island, at a time when they need it the most."

Quick Facts:

The ministry is committed to ensuring the safety of B.C.'s children and youth in communities across the province by providing services for vulnerable youth.
MCFD's youth services budget for 2012/13 is $40 million - an increase of $14 million since 2000-01. This budget funds youth safe house and emergency shelter beds across B.C., as well as a number of other valuable services that help youth, including:

Outreach workers, youth support workers, youth and family mediation, and transitional housing,
Support services for sexually exploited youth,
Youth Agreements with MCFD to address homelessness if living at home or with relatives is not an option, providing financial assistance for alternate places to live in addition to other supports,
Youth Education Assistance Fund - supports former youth in government care to engage in vocational training and post secondary education with more than $7 million in bursaries distributed to more than 1,000 youth,
Agreements with Young Adults - supports former youth in government care to transition into adulthood through financial assistance for education or rehabilitative programs, with more than 1,160 young adults helped.

In addition, the ministry works collaboratively with other ministries, to help link youth with other valuable services such as income assistance, alternative education or addictions programs.
Tillicum Lelum Aboriginal Friendship Society has been working to help improve the quality of life for Aboriginal people living in an urban environment since 1965 through a holistic approach to programming and services. Over the years, Tillicum Lelum has grown from a coffee drop-in to a multi-facetted agency, offering education and training programs, health and counselling services, social service programs and cultural events.

Learn More:

If you want to know more about youth programs and services offered through MCFD, please go to: www.mcf.gov.bc.ca/for_youth.htm

To learn more about Tillicum Lelum Aboriginal Friendship Society go to: www.tillicumlelum.ca/

Contact:

Shae Greenfield
Media Relations Manager
Ministry of Children and Family Development
250 356-1639
250 508-8403 (cell)

Funding helps midwives deliver for B.C. families

2012-05-04T17:15:00Z

VANCOUVER - British Columbian families considering the services of a midwife during pregnancy and birth have reason to celebrate as government expands access to midwifery training and services.

Starting in 2012-13, the University of British Columbia's (UBC) midwifery education program will be expanded from the existing 10 first-year spaces to 20 first-year spaces.

The Ministry of Advanced Education worked with UBC and the Ministry of Health to determine the need to double the number of B.C. midwife graduates to help meet the call from families for greater access to services. UBC will receive $1.914 million in one-time funding, and an increase of $833,920 in ongoing operating funding for a phased five-year expansion of the midwifery education program.

In addition, government recently reached a two-year service agreement with the Midwives Association of BC (MABC) that builds on government's Healthy Families BC initiative by expanding access to midwifery care throughout the province.

The two-year service agreement reached with the Ministry of Health provides $500,000 in new funding to increase the number of home births in B.C. From this funding, midwives will be able to hire support staff so families can choose to deliver safely in their own homes, which will free up capacity and avoid the higher costs of delivery in the acute care system.

Through this service agreement, midwives will also have access to funding to establish and maintain a practice in rural and remote communities that currently do not have access to midwifery care. This will further help government provide access to care that supports healthy pregnancies, healthy babies and ultimately healthy families.

Quotes:

Naomi Yamamoto, Minister of Advanced Education -

"Our government knows how important midwives are to expecting families, particularly for pre and postnatal care. That is why we are so proud to increase the number of seats in UBC's midwifery education program because more midwives graduating means we're helping meet the needs of B.C. families."

Michael de Jong, Minister of Health -

"I am pleased to be able to expand our support of home birth as a safe option for healthy low-risk mothers. I thank the Midwives Association of BC for its work in improving access to primary care and supporting healthy families."

Gavin Stuart, dean, vice provost health, UBC, and dean, faculty of medicine -

"The faculty of medicine is grateful that the Province has expanded funding for its midwifery program. The doubling of enrolment and the hiring of additional faculty will enable more women and their families, particularly in B.C.'s under-served communities, to obtain expert care before and during their deliveries, and will allow for research to make midwifery even more effective in the future."

Ganga Jolicoeur, executive director, Midwives Association of BC -

"Registered midwives are highly trained, educated and regulated professionals and demand for our client-centred maternity care services is growing dramatically. We welcome this new funding and support from the provincial government as it will provide women and families with greater choice and access to maternity care in both urban and rural communities throughout B.C."

Learn More:

To learn more about the midwifery education program at UBC, visit: www.midwifery.ubc.ca/midwifery

To learn more about midwifery in British Columbia, visit:
http://www.bcmidwives.com/

A backgrounder follows.

Media Contacts:

Joanne Whittier
Communications Manager
Ministry of Advanced Education
250 952-6400

Ryan Jabs
Media Relations Manager
Ministry of Health
250 952-1887 (media line)

BACKGROUNDER

May 4, 2012 Ministry of Advanced Education

Ministry of Health

Province expands midwifery in B.C.

Since the midwifery program began at UBC in 2002, it has had over 100 applicants each year for its 10 first-year spaces.
As of March 2011, 203 midwives are registered with the College of Midwifes of British Columbia - 167 practising and 36 non-practising.
Midwives manage approximately 6,300 births per year in B.C., and from 2008 to 2010 the number of births managed by midwives increased by 34 per cent.
Registered Midwives in B.C. offer primary maternity care to healthy pregnant women and their newborn babies from early pregnancy, through labour and birth, until about six weeks postpartum. Midwifery services are available in every region of the province, from Haida Gwaii to Cranbrook.
The two year service agreement reached with MABC falls in line with the government's broader fiscal goals. The agreement does not include any increase to fees. Rather the agreement recognizes that the current fee system needed adjustments to better support the practice of midwifery in B.C. The agreement also includes $500,000 in new funding to expand home births in B.C.
Specific highlights of the service agreement include:

$500,000 in new funding to increase the number of home births in B.C. Specifically these funds will be used to support a second attendant at all home births, which is a legal requirement but was not previously funded, and provide the necessary home birth supplies and medications.
$50,000 in one-time funding to continue a midwife emergency skills program.
$150,000 in reallocated fees to develop a rural locum program pilot which would establish a pool of locums available for short term coverage.
$65,000 in reallocated fees to support midwives in establishing a practice in rural communities currently without access to midwifery care.
In addition the agreement establishes a joint liaison committee to address issues such as access to care, benefits, and interdisciplinary care.

Midwives are self employed and government's contractual relationship with them is different than with unionized employees who are covered under the Public Sector Employers Act.
Like osteopaths, doctors, and providers of optometric and medically required dental services in private practices, midwives pay for overhead costs such as maintaining an office, birthing supplies and training.
The Ministry of Health has historically treated negotiations with these groups in a manner that is consistent with the government's financial goals.
The B.C. Medical Services Plan funds the cost of midwifery care for all B.C. residents with a valid CareCard.
In 2010, midwives billed approximately $19.3 million for clinical services.

Contact:

Ryan Jabs
Media Relations Manager
Ministry of Health
250 952-1887 (media line)

B.C. has lowest drug spending per person in Canada

2012-05-03T19:15:00Z

VICTORIA - British Columbia continues to have the lowest spending per person on prescription drugs in Canada, according to the Canadian Institute for Health Information.

In its report "Drug Expenditure in Canada, 1985 to 2011" released today, CIHI's data shows spending per person on prescription drugs in 2011 was lowest in B.C. at $575. The province with the highest spending per person was Nova Scotia at $985.

B.C.'s public-sector spending on prescribed drugs also continues to be the lowest in Canada, at $237 per person.

The report also shows drug spending accounted for 12.9 per cent of total health spending in B.C., well below the Canadian average of 16 per cent.

CIHI notes growth in drug spending may have slowed due in part to generic drug-pricing agreements and legislation in several provinces, such as B.C. The Province expects this downward trend in growth to continue with the recent introduction of the Pharmaceutical Services Act and future drug-pricing regulations.

The Pharmaceutical Services Act will allow the Province to control and further lower the prices of generic drugs, saving upward of $170 million a year compared to when B.C. started lowering generic prices in 2009-10.

Quote:

Minister of Health Michael de Jong -

"We are committed to providing British Columbians with access to the best drug therapies at the best price possible for taxpayers. As this report from CIHI shows, our hard work to control rising drug costs continues to pay off."

"Keeping drug costs reasonable helps keep the entire health-care system affordable and sustainable."

Quick Facts:

PharmaCare is one of the fastest-growing areas of the health-care budget. Since 2001, the PharmaCare budget has increased by approximately 74 per cent - from $654 million to more than $1.1 billion for 2011-12.
PharmaCare is one of the most comprehensive programs in the country and provides coverage to every British Columbian.
Through Fair PharmaCare, every British Columbian is eligible for assistance with prescription costs. Deductible levels are set to reflect patients' ability to pay. The lowest income earners pay no deductible at all, and those born in or before 1939 receive enhanced assistance.
A 2010 study from the Canadian Centre for Policy Alternatives notes, "British Columbia is often held up as a model for the rest of Canada in terms of pharmaceutical policy and health outcomes," and that these positive health outcomes are achieved at a lower cost than other provinces.

Learn More:

To read "Drug Expenditure in Canada, 1985 to 2011", please visit the Canadian Institute of Health Information at: www.cihi.ca

More information on the Pharmaceutical Services Act, the proposed legislation which will allow the Province to control and further lower the price of generic drugs, can be found at: http://www.leg.bc.ca/39th4th/1st_read/gov35-1.htm

For information about PharmaCare, British Columbia's public drug plans, who can register, how to register, and what drugs are covered, please visit PharmaCare's website: http://www.health.gov.bc.ca/pharmacare/

Media Contact:

Ryan Jabs
Media Relations Manager
Ministry of Health
250 952-1887 (media line)