IHA QUOTE OF THE WEEK

COMPLIMENTS OF: Ray Bernard

Interior Health - East Kootenays Health Services Area

When Ray Bernard was asked, if a person was injured in Jaffrey and was

brought to the Fernie hospital, needing the services of our available surgeon

would IHA allow Dr. Nally to help that person? He replied “Life and

Limb”. This answer was given not once but twice. The person then might

be taken to Cranbrook which could take 1 to 2 hours on a good day. There

have been cases where people have waited an additional 6 hours for

emergency service at the Cranbrook hospital.

This means that IHA would cause further trauma to a patient that is helpless

and in their most vulnerable state. We feel this is inhumane. The reason

given to us for this policy is IHA wishes to provide additional work for a surgeon in Cranbrook.

Note: This is a quote from the

IHA ( Interior Health Authority ) presentation

sponsored by the Liberal Constituency Association

at Jaffrey on Thursday Sept 9th, 2004.

(Bill Bennett our Liberal MLA was present)

Note: Quote also confirmed in person at IHA public form at

Fernie Community Center Sept. 14, 2004. 7:15PM

From: Elk Valley and South Country Health Care Coalition

As of September 2004, we are 800 members strong and growing.

Website: www.evsos.com