Newsroom - Health tag:www.newsroom.gov.bc.ca,2011-03-30://1 2013-06-14T17:08:58Z Movable Type Enterprise 4.38 Province takes steps to keep deadly deer disease out of B.C. tag:www.newsroom.gov.bc.ca,2013://1.6071 2013-06-12T20:05:00Z 2013-06-14T17:08:58Z The Province is launching a public awareness campaign to help prevent a disease that is killing deer, elk and moose in some areas of Alberta and Saskatchewan, from crossing the border into British Columbia. BC Government http://www.gov.bc.ca/ VICTORIA - The Province is launching a public awareness campaign to help prevent a disease that is killing deer, elk and moose in some areas of Alberta and Saskatchewan, from crossing the border into British Columbia.

To support the campaign, the Province has set up signs on Highway 49 near Dawson Creek and on Highway 3 near Sparwood, reminding hunters not to bring intact deer carcasses into B.C. The signs were developed with the support of the Peace River Regional District, the Guide Outfitters Association of BC, the BC Wildlife Federation and the Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation.

Hunters can still bring the meat from their hunt back to B.C. Possession of an out-of-province hide, antler, or part of a skull is also permitted, providing they have been treated in a way that removes all tissue. For detailed information on the requirements for processing out-of-province deer moose and elk, visit: http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/wld/documents/wldhealth/CWD_program_update_spring2013.pdf

Chronic Wasting Disease, or CWD, is a progressive, fatal nervous system disease that affects members of the deer family, including white-tailed deer, mule deer, moose and elk. The disease is caused by an abnormal protein and can spread when a healthy animal comes into contact with an infected animal, infected tissue or even soil contaminated by the protein.

The disease was first identified in Canada in 1996, and despite attempts to manage it, CWD continues to spread in Saskatchewan and Alberta. The Province has been working since 2001 to keep CWD out of B.C. and in 2010 passed a regulation to restrict the transport of high risk tissues of hunted animals into B.C. The Province continues to monitor for the disease and so far no infected animals have been found in B.C.

CWD is related to bovine spongiform encephalopathy, which causes mad cow disease. However, the World Health Organization (WHO) does not believe that CWD can be passed from deer to humans. As a precaution, WHO warns people not to eat the meat from infected deer.

For more information on CWD visit:http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/wld/wldhealth/cwd.html

Contact:

Media Relations
Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations
250 356-5261

]]> Health workers urged to watch for suspicious overdoses tag:www.newsroom.gov.bc.ca,2013://1.6035 2013-05-30T16:11:25Z 2013-05-30T16:25:38Z The Provincial Health Officer has advised emergency physicians, first responders, and other health-care workers to be watchful for potential overdoses associated with the drug fentanyl. BC Government http://www.gov.bc.ca/ VICTORIA - The Provincial Health Officer has advised emergency physicians, first responders, and other health-care workers to be watchful for potential overdoses associated with the drug fentanyl.

The BC Coroners Service’s preliminary numbers suggest that there have been 23 deaths related to fentanyl in the first four months of 2013, as compared to 20 related deaths in all of 2012. When fentanyl has been sold on the street in other jurisdictions, many people died from unexpected overdoses. During a 2006 fentanyl epidemic in Chicago, 342 people died.

A large supply of the drug was seized by Vancouver Police recently in connection with two overdose events. Fentanyl is very dangerous, and people taking it might be under the impression that they are taking either heroin or oxycodone.  

Fentanyl is an opioid. However, it can present a significantly higher risk of overdose. Should regular heroin users inadvertently take it instead of heroin, it could cause overdose and death. Fentanyl produces symptoms and signs that are indistinguishable from overdoses of other opioids and, while the treatment of patients with a fentanyl overdose is essentially the same as for other opioids, it can require significantly higher doses of naloxone.

Fentanyl can look identical to heroin or oxycodone, and can come in similar packaging. While the Provincial Health Officer always advises against the use of illicit drugs, people who do take illicit drugs should not use alone, should inject slowly and use Insite in Vancouver when possible. Call 9-1-1 at the first sign of distress, such as trouble breathing or loss of consciousness. People handling illicit drugs should use extreme caution, as fentanyl can be absorbed through mucous membranes and can cause severe adverse reactions and even death.

Contact:

Laura Neufeld
Ministry of Health
250 952-1887

]]> Royal Inland Hospital Redevelopment moves forward tag:www.newsroom.gov.bc.ca,2013://1.5949 2013-04-15T20:00:00Z 2013-04-15T20:52:06Z Royal Inland Hospital's redevelopment has moved forward today with the approval of the business case for a new Clinical Services Building. BC Government http://www.gov.bc.ca/ KAMLOOPS - Royal Inland Hospital's redevelopment has moved forward today with the approval of the business case for a new Clinical Services Building, which includes outpatient clinical services, educational space and up to 350 new stalls for onsite parking.

"Patients, and their families, as well as the health professionals who provide the care will benefit from the redevelopment," said Kamloops-North Thompson MLA Terry Lake on behalf of Health Minister Margaret MacDiarmid. "Expanded space, onsite parking and much-improved access to the facility are features of the first phase in the redevelopment of Royal Inland Hospital."

The Clinical Services Building will provide space for several outpatient services, including cardiopulmonary diagnostics and neurodiagnostics, community respiratory therapy, IV therapy, vascular improvement and medical outpatient services. The new building also will provide outpatient lab and electrocardiogram services, pre-surgical screening and operating room booking, teaching space for the UBC medical school program, a new lecture theatre as well as up to 350 spaces for onsite parking and improved vehicle and pedestrian access to the hospital.

The first phase of redevelopment is estimated to cost $79.8 million, with the Thompson Regional Hospital District contributing $31.9 million. Procurement for the Clinical Services Building is estimated to begin late spring 2013, with construction starting in spring 2014, and open to the public by spring 2016.

"This approval clears the way for the tendering process to launch construction of the Clinical Services Building, and proceed with $79.8 million in Phase One of our additions to Royal Inland Hospital," said Kamloops South-Thompson MLA Kevin Krueger. "With the previous $80 million invested at RIH since 2007, and the new seniors' facilities housing over 500 residents across Kamloops, as well as Premier Christy Clark's and Minister Margaret MacDiarmid's assurance that all phases of RIH's Master Development Plan are written into B.C.'s "Capital Plan, this is a massive and exciting upgrade to health-care delivery continues in Kamloops. "

"With the Interior's Psychiatric Centre, collaboration with Thompson Rivers University, modernization throughout Royal Inland, and the continuing great efforts of doctors and all members of the medical community, we are constantly attracting more specialists to our city," said Krueger.

"On behalf of the Thompson Regional Hospital District, I'm proud to contribute to this important project," said Peter Milobar, Thompson Regional Hospital District chair. "I think this is great news for the region."

In June 2011, Interior Health completed a master site plan for Royal Inland Hospital, which guides future development at the site. The plan highlighted priority areas requiring expansion and redesign, including hospital site access and parking, surgical services, in-patient areas and ambulatory care.

"Interior Health is committed to providing high-quality care, and as we complete each phase of the redevelopment, we come one step closer to ensuring health professionals can continue to provide outstanding care and service to our residents, " said Interior Health chair Norman Embree.

Since 2007, about $80 million in investments have been made at Royal Inland Hospital. This includes $27.5 million for second-floor redevelopment and new MRI, $17 million for the Hillside Centre mental health facility, $11 million to relocate the intensive care unit and $10.75 million for redevelopment of the medical device reprocessing department.

Media Contacts:

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

Erin Toews
Communications Officer
Interior Health Communications
250 314-2100, ext 3750

]]> Seniors' drop-in centre to benefit from gaming grant tag:www.newsroom.gov.bc.ca,2013://1.5932 2013-04-15T19:01:00Z 2013-04-29T17:49:31Z A $60,000 Community Gaming Grant provided to the Senior Citizens Club of Fernie and District will help the club upgrade and buy much-needed equipment for their facility. BC Government http://www.gov.bc.ca/ FERNIE - A $60,000 Community Gaming Grant provided to the Senior Citizens Club of Fernie and District will help the club upgrade and buy much-needed equipment for their facility, announced Community, Sport and Cultural Development Minister Bill Bennett.

The building where the seniors' drop-in centre was built in 1979 and 1980 requires various upgrades. These improvements include a new stove for its Monday-to-Thursday lunch service, new kitchen cabinet doors and a number of renovations to provide increased handicapped services to the seniors who use the facility.

Government gaming grants benefit local communities by allowing eligible organizations to apply for gaming revenues that support a broad range of local programs and services.

Quote:

Community, Sport and Cultural Development Minister Bennett -

"Organizations such as the Senior Citizens Club of Fernie and District provide very important services to the communities they serve. I am very pleased that government is able to support the Club and help improve the facility and continue to provide a great place for seniors to get together and, among other things, share a laugh and a story over a home-cooked meal."

Learn More:

To find out more about projects funded through this program: http://www.gaming.gov.bc.ca/grants

Media Contact:

Matt Gordon
Communications Director
Ministry of Community, Sport and Cultural Development
250 896-4923

]]> Government backs seniors with funding for new Killarney Community Centre tag:www.newsroom.gov.bc.ca,2013://1.5926 2013-04-15T18:30:00Z 2013-04-15T19:24:20Z The government of B.C. has committed to funding $1.3 million toward a new senior's centre in Southeast Vancouver. BC Government http://www.gov.bc.ca/ VANCOUVER - The government of B.C. has committed to funding $1.3 million toward a new senior's centre in Southeast Vancouver, an area that will get maximum benefit from this community resource, announced Minister of Community, Sport and Cultural Development, Bill Bennett today.

The senior's population in this area of Vancouver has been growing faster than in the city as a whole, resulting in a growing need for this type of resource for seniors in the neighbourhood.

Once built, this new 700-square-metre (7,500-square-foot) facility - an addition to the existing Killarney Community Centre - will provide programs, activities, services and special events for older adults of all cultures in the southeast section of Vancouver.

The addition will make use of the existing elevator and kitchen facility and expand by adding on meeting spaces, washrooms, a reception area and office space for the non-profit group.

Quote:

Community, Sport and Cultural Development Minister Bennett -

"I am convinced that to enjoy the best health you can, it's important for seniors to get out and participate in social activities and feel part of a caring community, even in living in a big city. This facility in Southeast Vancouver will go a long way towards promoting a nurturing, supportive environment that fosters social integration. I'm very pleased my government was able to step up to the plate for seniors living in this area."

Media Contact:

Matt Gordon
Communications Director
Ministry of Community, Sport and Cultural Development
250 896-4923

]]> Opportunity knocks for disabled athletes at Kamloops Games tag:www.newsroom.gov.bc.ca,2013://1.5921 2013-04-15T17:15:00Z 2013-04-15T19:21:06Z The Kamloops Legacy Performance Games will include disability sports thanks to provincial government funding. BC Government http://www.gov.bc.ca/ KAMLOOPS - The Kamloops Legacy Performance Games will include disability sports thanks to provincial government funding, announced Kamloops-North Thompson MLA Terry Lake today, on behalf of Minister of Community, Sport and Cultural Development Bill Bennett.

The government of British Columbia and several Disability Sport Organizations have agreed to partner with Kamloops to pilot disability sport programming at the 2014 Kamloops Legacy Performance Games.

Over the next three years, the government of B.C. has allotted $75,000 annually for new disability event opportunities. The Kamloops Legacy Performance Games are a good fit with a number of sports and a negotiated portion of the $75,000 will be made available over the next three years as a pilot. Amounts will be dependent on the number of sports represented. The Kamloops Sports Council is continuing to work with Disability Sport Organizations to identify opportunities.

The Kamloops Legacy Games are a result of the 2011 Western Canada Summer Games. The games are meant to provide multisport competition opportunities for athletes who miss out on other competitions because they don't fit the age categories or because their sports are not included.

The Kamloops Legacy Performance Games will run June 27-30, 2013 as a test event and will feature power soccer and wheelchair rugby as well as seven able-bodied sports. The first biannual Legacy Performance Games will take place in 2014.

Quotes:

Terry Lake, MLA for Kamloops-North Thompson -

"The Kamloops Legacy Performance Games represent a perfect development opportunity for a multisport competition for disability sports, filling a gap in B.C.'s sportscape. We are proud to support an innovative new competition and we know that with Kamloops' enthusiastic sport culture and extensive volunteer base, the Legacy Performance Games will take root and grow, providing many more sport opportunities for British Columbians."

Henry Pejril, president, Kamloops Sports Council -

"At the Kamloops Legacy Performance Games, we are very excited to have the support of the Province in helping athletes with physical disabilities to gain opportunities to increase their skill and experience through competition. The vision of the Legacy Performance Games is to support long term athlete development in the province and to showcase our amazing facilities in Kamloops, Canada's Tournament Capital."

Gail Hamamoto, executive director, BC Wheelchair Sports Association -

"BC Wheelchair Sports greatly appreciates the support of the Ministry of Community, Sport and Cultural Development in providing funding to the Kamloops Legacy Performance Games for athletes with a disability. This support is critical in ensuring equitable opportunities at multisport games in British Columbia that meet the needs of our future Paralympians. We thank both the provincial government and the Kamloops Legacy Performance Games for their commitment to addressing this gap in the long term athlete development model for athletes with a disability, and look forward to a very positive partnership."

Quick Facts:

  • Disability sports at the 2013 test event will include wheelchair rugby and power soccer. Able-bodied sports will include cycling, canoe and kayak, wrestling, and beach volleyball.
  • The event is expected to grow to include up to 15 sports and 2,000 athletes.
  • The Legacy Games will be held every two years, starting in 2014.

Contact:

Matt Gordon
Communications Director
Ministry of Community, Sport and Cultural Development
250 953-3677
250 896-4923

]]> Royal Columbian Hospital redevelopment moves ahead tag:www.newsroom.gov.bc.ca,2013://1.5910 2013-04-15T16:30:00Z 2013-04-15T17:03:51Z The government of B.C. is proceeding with the business case for the first phase in the redevelopment of Royal Columbian Hospital. BC Government http://www.gov.bc.ca/ VICTORIA - The government of B.C. is proceeding with the business case for the first phase in the redevelopment of Royal Columbian Hospital.

"A critical step forward has been taken as the government remains committed to the redevelopment of Royal Columbian Hospital," said Health Minister Margaret MacDiarmid. "Hospital redevelopment will benefit patients and families as well as the hundreds of health-care professionals who provide care."

The full redevelopment is expected to include additional beds, a larger emergency department, a new surgical suite and consolidation of critical-care beds. As well, there will be renovations and upgrades to existing spaces. The first phase of redevelopment will replace the Sherbrooke Centre with a new mental health building to meet current standards of care.

"I'd like to thank the provincial government for their commitment to the redevelopment of Royal Columbian Hospital. This hospital is one of the busiest hospitals in British Columbia. Approval to proceed with planning is very exciting news, as it ensures this site will continue to accommodate new technologies, best practices and the changing health needs of the communities we serve, and the province of British Columbia," said Fraser Health board chair David Mitchell.

Final scope, cost, and schedule will be determined as part of the business-case planning, which is expected to be complete over 2013-14. Following approval of the business case, procurement for construction of the first phase of the project will commence.

Royal Columbian Hospital is a leading trauma, cardiac, neurosciences and neonatal intensive care unit centre. Fraser Health is the largest health authority in British Columbia, serving 35 per cent of the province's population.

Since 2001-02, approximately $8 billion has been spent on health-sector capital projects in British Columbia. Over the next three years, British Columbia will benefit from investments, such as new health-care facilities, as part of a $2.3-billion health sector capital plan.

Media Contacts:

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

Fraser Health
604 450-7881

]]> Licensed practical nurses now part of new bargaining structure tag:www.newsroom.gov.bc.ca,2013://1.5906 2013-04-15T16:15:00Z 2013-04-15T16:29:26Z Government has enacted legislation allowing licensed practical nurses to be in the same bargaining structure as registered nurses. BC Government http://www.gov.bc.ca/ VICTORIA - Government has enacted legislation allowing licensed practical nurses to be in the same bargaining structure as registered nurses, Health Minister Margaret MacDiarmid announced today.

"Our government respects the wishes of licensed practical nurses who democratically decided they wanted to be represented by the BC Nurses Union, which already represents registered nurses in the province," said MacDiarmid. "This change will allow nurses to work collectively within the same bargaining framework, and provide greater opportunities for collaboration and integration within the health system."

The Health Authorities Amendment Act was introduced on March 4 and received royal assent on March 14. Consultations with a variety of stakeholders, including health employers and union groups, were held following royal assent.

Licensed practical nurses are professional nurses in the full sense of the term as they have a defined and expanding scope of practice and their own college to oversee the administration and evolution of the profession.

While the legislation is in force immediately, there will be a period for parties to work out the details of moving licensed practical nurses under the same collective agreement as registered nurses, with a deadline for this to occur by April 2014.

This means that existing terms and conditions of licensed practical nurses employment will continue until the amendments are negotiated, resulting in no immediate cost of bringing licensed practical nurses into the Nurses Bargaining Association.

"While we recognize there may be some costs associated with this change, we feel there are also benefits to the health care system - as having all nurses bargain together for a single, provincial collective agreement will help optimize the use of health-care resources," added MacDiarmid. "It will also allow a team-based approach to care and focus on competencies and scope rather than union, political, or labour relations perspectives."

Contact:

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

]]> Awareness and education advised on youth bodychecking in hockey tag:www.newsroom.gov.bc.ca,2013://1.5898 2013-04-14T20:00:00Z 2013-04-15T19:12:53Z Minister of Community, Sport and Cultural Development Bill Bennett encouraged education and awareness about youth bodychecking for parents, coaches, and all involved in youth hockey. BC Government http://www.gov.bc.ca/ VICTORIA - In light of research highlighting the frequency and severity of injuries as a result of bodychecking, Minister of Community, Sport and Cultural Development Bill Bennett today encouraged education and awareness about youth bodychecking for parents, coaches, and all involved in youth hockey.

In June, members will consider a resolution at the BC Hockey Annual General Meeting to raise the age of the introduction of bodychecking in youth rep hockey. BC Hockey is encouraging members to let their associations know if they support raising the age.

Bill Bennett, Minister of Community, Sport and Cultural Development -

"I played defense in hockey. Both of my sons played, I coached and I managed hockey teams, but I don't pretend to be any sort of an expert. I just want parents and coaches to be aware of the medical information available today on the impact of bodychecking at a young age, so that they can make an informed decision."

Wilf Liefke, president, BC Hockey -

"Many local associations are holding their AGMs in the weeks leading up to the provincial AGM, so this is a good opportunity to discuss the issue and make informed decisions."

Bill Barrable, CEO, Rick Hansen Institute -

"Increasingly medical research confirms that the adolescent brain is especially vulnerable to traumatic brain injury. A growing body of research is also telling us that body checking in youth rep leagues is a major risk factor for spinal cord injury and traumatic brain injury. It's very important that minor hockey associations promote awareness among all parents, coaches and players with these facts."

Quick Facts:

  • The BC Hockey Annual General Meeting will be held June 7-9 in Sun Peaks near Kamloops.
  • Hockey Canada rules do not allow bodychecking below the age of 11. Each provincial or territorial association sets its own rules for bodychecking for players 11 and above.
  • Many health organizations, including the BC Provincial Health Office, Canadian Paediatric Society, Rick Hansen Institute, BC Injury Research and Prevention Unit, Sport Med BC, BC Health and Safety Council, and the Canadian Maternal and Child Health Network recommend that bodychecking should not be allowed in peewee (ages 11-12) level hockey.

Fact sheet: http://www.newsroom.gov.bc.ca/Bodychecking_Factsheet_April_2013.pdf

Contact:

Matt Gordon
Communications Director
Ministry of Community, Sport and Cultural Development
250 953-3677
250 896-4923

]]> B.C. proclaims child sexual abuse prevention week tag:www.newsroom.gov.bc.ca,2013://1.5880 2013-04-13T15:30:00Z 2013-04-15T18:24:52Z April 14-20 is Child Sexual Abuse Prevention Week in British Columbia. BC Government http://www.gov.bc.ca/ VICTORIA - April 14-20 is Child Sexual Abuse Prevention Week in British Columbia, a time to recognize the traumatic impacts of child sexual abuse and the importance of working together to keep children safe.

Child sexual abuse is a serious social problem, with the most conservative research estimates indicating at least 10 per cent of boys and 20 per cent of girls are victimized. Sexual abuse may be associated with a host of personal, social and health problems, including the loss of self-esteem, relationship problems, mental-health problems, problematic substance abuse, economic hardship, homelessness and suicide.

Public awareness, community education and clinical services and support for children and families, including those provided by Sexual Abuse Intervention Programs (SAIP) throughout the province, are key to addressing the issue. The Ministry of Children and Family Development provides funding for 49 SAIP agencies. Supports and services, such as counselling, also are provided by community-based Child and Youth Mental Health teams.

The Province also operates Suspected Child Abuse and Neglect (SCAN) units, which provide specialized medical assessment for children and youth who have been, or are suspected of being sexually and/or physically abused. The SCAN units are located in every region of the province.

There's also a toll-free 24 hour helpline for children - 310-1234 - which can be accessed from anywhere in B.C. No area code is needed and anyone can call - children or teenagers who need help, parents in crisis or anyone who knows or suspects a child is being abused or neglected.

Quotes:

Stephanie Cadieux, Minister of Children and Family Development -

"We all have a role to play in preventing child sexual abuse and helping children when we think they need someone to speak up for them. It's important for children to know who they can turn to when they need help."

"We need to create a supportive environment for children so that they can speak openly about their concerns and doubts, or disclose sexual abuse to someone they trust."

Shirley Bond, Minister of Justice and Attorney General -

"There is no priority more important than ensuring that children and youth who may have been abused are receiving appropriate services and supports. In addition to all of the other work being done, we have provided funding and support to service providers working within the justice system to make it a less intimidating place for children."

"Together, we can work to stop child abuse before it happens, and ensure that children are provided with the services and supports that they deserve."

Learn More:

For information on the indicators of child abuse, how to report suspected abuse and a range of child-welfare and child-protection resources, please visit: www.mcf.gov.bc.ca/child_protection/index.htm

For information on the ministry community-based, Child and Youth Mental Health programs and services in the province, go to: www.mcf.gov.bc.ca/mental_health/index.htm

Contact:

Sheldon Johnson
Media Relations Manager
Ministry of Children and Family Development
250 356-1639
250 213-5811 (cell)

]]> Athletic Commissioner Act comes into force tag:www.newsroom.gov.bc.ca,2013://1.5864 2013-04-12T18:00:00Z 2013-04-12T18:57:14Z Government has approved a regulation setting May 30, 2013 as the effective date for the Athletic Commissioner Act to come into force. BC Government http://www.gov.bc.ca/ VICTORIA - Government has approved a regulation setting May 30, 2013 as the effective date for the Athletic Commissioner Act to come into force and for the BC Athletic Commissioner to begin operations, fulfilling a commitment made by Premier Christy Clark.

This new provincial regulatory regime will enhance the safety of participants in professional boxing and mixed martial arts (MMA) through consistent regulation. The BC Athletic Commissioner will be responsible for administering a provincial standard of qualifications and safety protocols for all participants and officials through a uniform licensing and permitting framework, and ensuring compliance with the act and its regulation.

The provincial commissioner will replace local commissions (authorized under the Community Charter and the Vancouver Charter) that currently regulate these sports in their communities, thereby providing a more consistent regulatory approach.

Quotes:

Community, Sport and Cultural Development Minister Bill Bennett -

"There is no question mixed martial arts has rapidly grown into a tremendously popular sport here in British Columbia and across North America. A key priority for this government is to ensure that these activities take place in the safest possible environment. Regulation at the provincial level will also mean that MMA is regulated in a consistent way in all areas of the province. This benefits both participants and the MMA industry."

Quick Facts:

  • The act comes into force effective May 30, 2013. Local athletic commissions will retain responsibility for boxing and MMA events authorized before May 30, 2013.
  • A process for hiring a commissioner is underway.
  • BC will join Manitoba, Ontario, Quebec and Nova Scotia in the regulation of MMA and boxing at the provincial level.
  • Professional kickboxing and Muay Thai kickboxing will not be regulated under the Athletic Commissioner Act. They may be added at a later date.

Contacts:

Matt Gordon
Communications Director
Ministry of Community, Sport and Cultural Development
250 896-4923

]]> New school, activity centre for Giscome tag:www.newsroom.gov.bc.ca,2013://1.5859 2013-04-12T17:51:00Z 2013-04-15T17:15:34Z Prince George-Valemount MLA Shirley Bond paid a special visit to Giscome. BC Government http://www.gov.bc.ca/ GISCOME - Prince George-Valemount MLA Shirley Bond paid a special visit to Giscome today. Bond brought a $2.4-million project agreement signed by Education Minister Don McRae for signing by Prince George school board chair Sharel Warrington. This agreement paves the way for a new school and activity centre for the community.

The Giscome Elementary project will see two new modular classrooms complemented by a new activity centre. The Regional District of Fraser-Fort George is contributing $556,000 to build the activity centre which will provide the opportunity for a variety of student sports and offer recreational and multi-purpose space for community use.

After Giscome Elementary was closed due to health and safety issues in 2009, two portable classrooms were put on site so students could continue to learn in their community instead of having to attend school in Prince George.

Giscome's modular classrooms project is part of the government's $16.9-million program announced in 2012 to renew aging infrastructure in rural B.C. In addition to Prince George, the government is upgrading schools in the Nicola-Similkameen, Nechako Lakes and Nisga'a school districts.

Quotes:

Don McRae, Minister of Education -

"We understand the value of schools to smaller communities like Giscome and we have responded with a modular classroom program that will create safe, comfortable schools in four rural communities across the province."

Shirley Bond, Minister of Justice and Prince George-Valemount MLA -

"I was very proud to work with the dedicated and passionate families who told me how important it was to have their children educated closer to home. We also partnered with the Regional District of Fraser Fort-George so that an activity centre will be part of this project. Working together we were successful in achieving our goal and today I am so proud to deliver the project agreement that ensures there will be a new modular school and activity centre built in Giscome."

Sharel Warrington, chair, Prince George Board of Education -

"Pairing an activity centre with Giscome Elementary school will provide a hub for local residents and I want to thank all those who have worked to make this project possible."

Quick Facts:

  • There are more than 13,500 elementary, secondary and graduated adult students in the Prince George school district.
  • Giscome is located approximately 40 kilometres from Prince George.
  • Currently, 23 students are enrolled in kindergarten to Grade 7 in Giscome Elementary.
  • Since 2001, the government of B.C. has invested approximately $54 million in the Prince George school district. This includes an addition to Southridge Elementary, an addition to College Heights Secondary, a replacement school for Valemount Secondary, and a replacement school for Duchess Park Secondary.
  • Since 2001, the government has spent more than $2.4 billion to complete 96 new and replacement schools, 151 additions, 27 renovations and 25 site acquisitions across B.C.

Learn More:

Prince George school district: http://www.sd57.bc.ca/

Giscome Elementary: http://www.gisc.sd57.bc.ca/

BC's Education Plan: www.bcedplan.ca

Contact:

Government Communications and Public Engagement
Ministry of Education
250 356-5963

]]> Ground broken for new Lakes District hospital tag:www.newsroom.gov.bc.ca,2013://1.5858 2013-04-12T17:20:00Z 2013-04-12T19:08:39Z An exciting milestone in the construction of a new Lakes District Hospital and Health Centre in Burns Lake was reached with the official groundbreaking. BC Government http://www.gov.bc.ca/

BURNS LAKE - An exciting milestone in the construction of a new Lakes District Hospital and Health Centre in Burns Lake was reached today with the official groundbreaking.

"The new hospital will be a welcome addition by families and health-care professionals alike," said Nechako Lakes MLA John Rustad, on behalf of Health Minister Margaret MacDiarmid. "Building patient care in Burns Lake with the replacement of Lakes District Hospital and Health Care has been a true community effort."

PCL Constructors Westcoast Inc. has been awarded the contract to design and build the Lakes District Hospital and Health Centre. The total project cost of up to $55 million is shared between the government of British Columbia and Stuart Nechako Regional Hospital District.

The replacement hospital is scheduled to be completed and open for patient by the fall of 2015. The project is expected to generate approximately 200 direct jobs during the construction period. The new hospital is being built behind the current facility, which will be demolished once the new centre is completed and occupied.

"It is a tremendous day as the construction work starts on the new Lakes District Hospital and Health Centre. The new hospital will enable staff to deliver high-quality health services in a modernized environment for the residents of Lakes District and area," said Cathy Ulrich, Northern Health chief executive officer.

The new hospital will have 16 beds and the new centre will provide acute care and emergency services, diagnostic imaging, a laboratory and pharmacy. Space also is planned for a medical clinic along with the delivery of mental health and addictions services, public health, and home and community care.

The facility will be a two-storey building and approximately 6,100 square metres (65,000 square feet). The hospital will be a green and energy efficient facility designed to achieve Leadership in Energy and Environmental Gold certification.

"Starting construction is an exciting stage for this project. With the groundbreaking, we are getting closer to having a facility that will provide high-quality care for patients in the area," said Ralph Roy, chair of the Stuart Nechako Regional Hospital District.

Since 2001, government has spent approximately $8 billion on health capital projects in British Columbia. The North has benefited from these investments, including the Lakes District Hospital and Health Centre, as well as a new hospital planned for Haida Gwaii and funding for the Northern Health Learning and Development Centre at the University Hospital of Northern B.C.

Media Contacts:

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

Northern Health
778 349-2716

]]> $18.4 million for mental health and substance use supports tag:www.newsroom.gov.bc.ca,2013://1.5856 2013-04-12T17:15:00Z 2013-04-12T22:21:05Z The Province announced funding totalling $18.4 million to support ongoing research and grassroots projects that will benefit individuals and families facing mental illness and substance use challenges. BC Government http://www.gov.bc.ca/ VANCOUVER - The Province today announced funding totalling $18.4 million to support ongoing research and grassroots projects that will benefit individuals and families facing mental illness and substance use challenges.

"Mental health and substance use challenges affect one in five people as well as their families," said Health Minister Margaret MacDiarmid. "The funding announced today will support evidence-based strategies that promote mental health, prevent harmful use of substances and improve services and supports."

The funding includes $1.4 million that will allow the Canadian Mental Health Association - BC Division to expand Strongest Families BC, a phone-based early intervention coaching service for families and children three to 12 years of age experiencing behavioural challenges. $900,000 of this funding was provided by the Ministry of Children and Family Development and $500,000 through a one-time grant from the Provincial Health Services Authority.

"Strongest Families is a step forward for B.C. as we build up the system of support for our young people struggling with mental health problems," said Children and Family Development Minister Stephanie Cadieux. "It is the entire family that struggles as they try to sort out what's going on, why it's going on and how to help. Strongest Families is an invaluable service to provide resources and guidance for the parents - and much-needed peace of mind that they are taking the right steps to help their children."

The remaining $17 million is being provided through one-time grants from the Provincial Health Services Authority, and includes:

  • The Community Action Initiative will receive $15 million to support their ongoing operations through the Canadian Mental Health Association - BC Division, which acts as the Community Action Initiative's fiscal agent. The Community Action Initiative is a provincewide grant-making body that supports collaborative, community action that addresses substance use and promotes mental health.
  • The Michael Smith Foundation for Health Research will receive $1 million to undertake mental health research projects.
  • The University of Victoria's Centre for Addictions Research of BC will also receive $1 million to support addictions and substance use research and information sharing.

The funding aligns with the provincial government's 10-year mental health and substance use plan, Healthy Minds, Healthy People. This plan aims to address mental health and substance use for children and adults, with a focus on prevention, early intervention, treatment and sustainability.

"We believe it is critical to stay the course with the 10-year mental health and substance use plan that has been recently strengthened by the addition of A Path Forward: BC First Nations and Aboriginal People's Mental Wellness and Substance Use Ten-Year Plan," said Bev Gutray, co-chair for the Community Action Initiative and chief executive officer for the Canadian Mental Health Association. "These plans provide a strong focus on early intervention and mental health promotion. We must focus our efforts on the one in seven children who experience a mental illness, as we know that fewer than 25 per cent of these children will receive the help they need. For all us, government, labour, business and the charitable sector, it is important to remember that mental health starts in our homes, schools, and communities and we all have a role to play in making a difference each and every day."

Established in 2008, the Community Action Initiative is governed by a Leadership Council that includes community-based mental health and substance use organizations, professional associations, aboriginal organizations, labour, business and provincial ministries.

The new one-time grant of $15 million will support the ongoing activities of the Community Action Initiative, which includes the provision of local grants that encourages cross-sector collaboration and innovation at the community level and capacity building opportunities for mental health and substance use service providers. To date, 154 grants totalling $6.7 million and serving 61 communities in British Columbia have been provided through the Community Action Initiative.

"The Community Action Initiative breaks new ground by bringing together Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal stakeholders," said Paul Lacerte, co-chair of the Community Action Initiative and executive director of the BC Association of Aboriginal Friendship Centres. "Aboriginal people stand to benefit from this investment through sustainable, culturally relevant projects."

The funding of $1 million to the Michael Smith Foundation for Health Research will be used to establish partnerships and support for research projects that evaluate health outcomes and inform the province's 10-year mental health and substance use plan.

"I am really excited by the opportunity this funding provides to link researchers at B.C.'s academic institutions to the work being done in our communities and health authorities through programs like the Community Action Initiative," said Diane Finegood, president and CEO of the Michael Smith Foundation for Health Research. "It's an example of how organizations can work together to address complex mental health and substance use challenges."

The funding of $1 million to the University of Victoria's Centre for Addictions Research of BC will fund academic engagement, research that increases understanding of substance use, addictions and related harms, and information sharing among researchers and care providers.

"Substance use affects all of us," said Tim Stockwell, director of the Centre for Addictions Research of BC. "We are committed to helping our society better understand, manage and navigate a world where different people have different relationships with alcohol and other drugs."

Learn more:

For more information on B.C.'s 10-year mental health and substance use plan: www.health.gov.bc.ca/healthy-minds

For more information about Child and Youth Mental Health services in B.C.: www.mcf.gov.bc.ca/mental_health/

For more information on the 10-year mental wellness and substance use plan for BC First Nations and Aboriginal People's: www.health.gov.bc.ca/library/publications/year/2013/First_Nations_Aboriginal_MWSU_plan_final.pdf

For more information about the Community Action Initiative: www.communityactioninitiative.ca

For more information about the Michael Smith Foundation for Health Research: www.msfhr.org/

For more information about Strongest Families B.C.: www.strongestfamiliesbc.ca

For more information about the UVic Centre for Addictions Research of BC: www.carbc.ca/

Media contacts:

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

Sheldon Johnson
Media Relations Manager
Ministry of Children and Family Development
250 356-1639

BACKGROUNDER

Community Action Initiative

The Community Action Initiative was established in 2008 through a $10-million grant from the Province of British Columbia. The grant was provided to the BC Mental Health Foundation who, through the Alliance for Mental Health/Illness and Addictions, established the Community Action Initiative. The Community Action Initiative is now fiscally managed through the Canadian Mental Health Association - BC Division.

The Community Action Initiative supports collaborative community action that addresses substance use and promotes mental health for British Columbians. The Community Action Initiative is a complement to government's Healthy Minds, Healthy People: A Ten-Year Plan to Address Mental Health and Substance Use in British Columbia and to the BC First Nations & Aboriginal People's Mental Wellness and Substance Use Ten-year Plan.

The initiative is governed by a Leadership Council made up of representatives from across various fields, including government, non-profit, labour, business and Aboriginal groups:

  • Addictions Specialists and Allied Professionals of BC
  • BC Association of Aboriginal Friendship Centres
  • BC Association of Clinical Counsellors
  • BC Association of Social Workers
  • BC Federation of Labour
  • BC Federation of Community Social Services
  • BC government (Ministry of Health, Ministry of Children & Family Development)
  • BC Schizophrenia Society
  • BC School Counsellors Association
  • Canadian Mental Health Association - BC Division
  • Canadian Mental Health Association - Kelowna Branch
  • Families Organized for Recognition and Care Equality (F.O.R.C.E.) Society for Kids' Mental Health
  • First Nations Health Authority
  • From Grief to Action
  • Herold Engineering Ltd.
  • Métis Nation British Columbia

The Initiative funds strategies through three specific funding streams:

  • Convening - grants of up to $10,000 to establish partnerships, to plan collaboratively and prepare grant applications before they apply for stage two (service innovation) funding for their projects.
  • Service innovation - grants of up to $200,000 to support implementation of proposed service innovation projects.
  • Training - to enhance the ability of community organizations to share knowledge and deliver mental health and substance use supports and services in more effective and innovative ways.

To date, 154 grants totalling $6.7 million and serving 61 communities in British Columbia have been provided through the Community Action Initiative. A detailed list of funded grants can be found here: www.communityactioninitiative.ca/about-the-cai/funded-projects/

The Community Action Initiative is committed to evaluating its programs to ensure that its monies are invested wisely and contributing towards better health outcomes for British Columbians. Evaluation reports can be found here: www.communityactioninitiative.ca/about-the-cai/what-we-do/measuring-success/

Strongest Families BC

Since it began as a pilot program in October 2011, 330 B.C. families have received support through Strongest Families BC.

No matter where they live in the province, families can get help. Anyone with a child between the ages of three and 12 experiencing behavioural challenges can get a referral to the program from their family doctor. The service is free and a mental health disorder diagnosis is not required.

Trained coaches work with parents and children over the phone over the course of 12 to 14 weeks. They help them identify and work through their issues and apply the new skills they learn to reduce negative effects at home and at school and prevent the problems from getting worse. Families also receive handbooks and skill-demonstration videos, and work through step-by-step modules at home.

Convenience is one of the program's greatest strengths. Coaches work with families at times that work for them - days, evenings and weekends. Families don't have to travel to appointments, parents don't have to miss work and children don't have to miss school.

In addition to the phone service, the Ministry of Health and the BC Medical Association have held training sessions for family physicians to improve their ability to detect and assess childhood mental health conditions and link children to appropriate help.

The additional $1.4 million funding for Strongest Families includes $900,000 from the Ministry of Children and Family Development and $500,000 through a one-time grant from the Provincial Health Services Authority to fund the service until March 2015.

$18.4 million for mental health and substance use supports

Media contacts:

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

Sheldon Johnson
Media Relations Manager
Ministry of Children and Family Development
250 356-1639

]]> More publicly funded vaccines available through pharmacists tag:www.newsroom.gov.bc.ca,2013://1.5853 2013-04-12T16:00:00Z 2013-04-12T16:45:14Z British Columbians can now access a wide variety of publicly funded vaccines from their local pharmacist, giving them increased access and choice. BC Government http://www.gov.bc.ca/ VICTORIA - British Columbians can now access a wide variety of publicly funded vaccines from their local pharmacist, giving them increased access and choice, Health Minister Margaret MacDiarmid announced today.

"Pharmacists are a very important and valuable component of our health-care system," said MacDiarmid. "With this expansion, eligible patients will have increased access and choice when it comes to protecting themselves and their families from diseases such as tetanus, measles and hepatitis."

Pharmacists already play a key role in providing immunizations to protect British Columbians aged five years and older from diseases such as influenza, pneumococcal pneumonia, pertussis and HPV (the virus that can lead to some cervical cancers).

The additional vaccines that pharmacists are now able to provide include:

  • Measles, mumps and rubella (MMR).
  • Hepatitis A and B - especially at pharmacies in communities where risks of infection are high.
  • Tetanus/Diphtheria.
  • Varicella (chicken pox) and Hepatitis B - as supplements to the school-based program.
  • HPV (the virus that can lead to some cervical cancers) for women born in 1991 - 1993.
  • Pneumococcal polysaccharide, for seniors over 65 years of age, or people at increased risk of pneumococcal disease, including those with chronic diseases.
  • Meningococcal C Conjugate vaccine.
  • Pertussis vaccine.

"This expansion of available publicly funded vaccines is a positive move and makes effective use of pharmacists' extensive training and skills," said Bob Nakagawa, registrar with the College of Pharmacists of BC. "We know that vaccines help save lives and prevent illness, and by making vaccines easier and more convenient for British Columbians to receive, we will help to ensure as many people are protected as possible."

Pharmacists must undergo additional training to be authorized to give vaccines. There are now more than 2,000 pharmacists authorized to provide vaccines throughout British Columbia, with more added all the time.

Since 2009, authorized pharmacists have had access to vaccine products for sale and administration within the private payer system, and limited access to publicly funded vaccines. With this change, authorized pharmacists will be able to administer almost all publicly funded vaccines.

British Columbia's publicly funded immunization program protects British Columbians from up to 16 vaccine preventable diseases, saving countless lives and preventing illness. To learn more about B.C.'s immunization program, visit http://immunizebc.ca


Media contact:

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

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