Dear Editor,
As a senior citizen in the Sunrise Health Region, I am concerned about the services presently not being offered in this district.
Several months ago, our podiatry clinic was closed with little warning. This is an essential service, particularly for diabetes. The expectation was that patients would then have to travel to Regina for treatments. At about that time STC folded, making it a hardship for many to make that trip.
Fortunately, Janet Simpson, recognizing the need, opened up her own private clinic in Yorkton, but the cost is no longer supplemented by SHSP.
Just recently, a friend suffered a stroke requiring Speech Therapy. This was a service provided in the district, but I understand that therapist is no longer employed here. I realize speech therapists are in short supply, but hopefully when notice was given, a search was immediately started. My friend must now make a weekly trip to Wascana for Speech Therapy. Winter driving in Saskatchewan can be hazardous, especially for seniors, adding to the stress factor for someone already in a weakened condition.
Now I am hearing that the Ultrasound department does not have a technician, since the long serving, previous person has retired. One would assume that with notice and probably a couple of months of knowing that this would be happening, that a replacement would be found, preferably with orientation before he retired. It is my understanding that his position will not be filled until February. So once again, the people in this district, will be required to drive through the winter months to keep their appointments.
I realize the Sunrise Health Region provides for a wide area, and to an increasingly aging population. At this point, I do not feel that our needs are being met adequately. With the unpredictability of Saskatchewan winters, no regular bus service to depend on, our citizens are expected to take a shuttle at 5:15 a.m., and not return until over 12 hours later. Certainly not conducive to the health of the weak and the aged.
I realize that the “bottom line” is always being considered, but we do not deserve to be at the bottom of the line!
Marilyn Pachal
Yorkton, SK.
