Wait times for healthcare procedures is a concern across Canada and particularly here in Manitoba. While recent reports indicate there has been modest improvement in some wait times, much more has to happen.
To help examine how best to improve wait times, our government committed to establishing a task force on this issue. This past week, I announced the Chair for the Manitoba Wait Time Reduction Task Force along with public members and consultations. Wayne Elhard has been named chair and will manage the work of the task force, as well as bring the experience and knowledge necessary to oversee the work ahead as we address waits. Mr. Elhard served in the Saskatchewan Legislature as an MLA and Cabinet Minister in the government of Brad Wall and brings a variety of policy and life experiences to this role
We know that Manitobans are concerned about timely access to health-care services across our province and too often endure unacceptable wait times for procedures. Recent studies including the Peachey report on clinical services, have demonstrated clearly that timely access to diagnostic services is a key factor in reducing waits for care. The work of this task force is key to identifying the processes that are not working and which must be improved if we are to ensure better patient care and the long-term sustainability of our health-care system.
In addition to the committee, a public survey will open on April 3 and public consultations will be held where Manitobans are encouraged to participate in these discussions and offer their input. The first public meetings about emergency services will be held in:
- Hamiota – April 3, 6 to 8:30 p.m., Hamiota and District Sports Complex, 200 Maple Dr. E.
- Dauphin – April 4, 6:30 to 9 p.m., St. Viator’s Roman Catholic Church, 307 Whitmore Ave E.
- Swan River – April 5, 1:30 to 4 p.m., Swan River War Veterans Community Hall, 119 Sixth Ave. N.
- The Pas – April 6, 1:30 to 4 p.m., Royal Canadian Legion Branch 19, Four Veterans Way (behind the Wescana Inn); and
- Thompson – Friday, April 7, 2 to 4:30 p.m., multi-purpose room, Vale Regional Community Centre, 274 Thompson Dr. S.
Additional community meetings for emergency services, as well as public meetings about surgical and diagnostic wait times, will be held later in April. Information about those meetings will be posted online as it becomes available. Individuals who want to attend but may have special accessibility requirements can phone 1-855-259-9670 (toll-free) or email WTRTF@gov.mb.ca to share their needs with the meeting organizers.
Manitobans have important information to share on how to improve access to emergency department, surgical and diagnostic services. An online survey and public meetings will provide opportunities for Manitobans to share their experiences and ideas on how these important services can be improved. Responses to the survey will be used to develop the recommendations of the Wait Times Reduction Task Force committees. Starting April 3, the survey can be found online.
