This update is intended to keep area residents aware of progress being made in our efforts to return Princeton General Hospital’s Emergency Department (ED) to full 24/7 coverage.
REEF:
An application for Rural Emergency Enhancement Funding (REEF) was approved in early November.
The application provides incentives for physicians to provide full weekend ED coverage and augments other incentives Princeton Town Council, the Regional District of Okanagan Similkameen and the community have put in place, such as, fully furnished housing for locums and funding from local industry.
PHYSICIANS:
Through collaborative efforts, a new physician has been recruited and is anticipated to begin work at Cascade Medical Clinic in summer 2013.This physician will also be providing regular support to the Emergency Department.
Interior Health would like to acknowledge Dr. Eva for his efforts and the mayor and local community members for their hospitality during this physician’s recent visit to the community.
REMINDER:
Call 911 in the event of an emergency or HealthLink BC at 811 to speak with a nurse at any time of day.
HOLIDAY HEALTH TIPS:
It’s important to spread joy, not illness this holiday season. Here are some tips for staying healthy: Wash your hands often with soap and water or use an alcohol-based hand rub; get your flu shot; ensure your prescriptions are filled in advance, follow dosage directions and remember to keep your medications with you while travelling; get regular exercise and eat nutritious foods; everything in moderation, including alcohol; keep activities fun and safe and take care driving and avoid taking risks with the weather.
Wishing you good health this holiday season.
Princeton ER Sustainability Committee
Susan Brown, Community Integrated Health Services Administrator, South Okanagan
Claire Ann Brodie, CIHS Community Area Director, Central
Maja Karlsson, Leader, Physician Initiatives
Dr. Curtis Bell, Senior Medical Director, IH West
Dr. Brad Raison, Chief of Staff, Princeton General Hospital
Jason Earle, Councillor, Town of Princeton
Brad Hope, Area Director, RDOS
Ed Staples, Community Rep and Alternate RDOS