The Committee explained they are six mothers who are advocating on behalf of those who would like to give birth in Flin Flon.

Northern Health Region CEO Helga Bryant and Regional Administrative Officer Scott Hamel reviewed their attempts at hiring an obstetrician and the clinical study that resulted in the suspension for the safety of patients and staff and the pre-natal program they offer locally now working with between 40 and 50 women on their lead up to child birth.

Bryant noted they are awaiting the results of the first ever provincial clinical and preventative services plan that has called on health experts to determine which services should be provided where and by whom and which can be moved out of Winnipeg to other centers with a human resources plan attached.  The plan should be before government in May or June and Bryant said they will have to move quickly on it as many services such as our obstetrics program are on hold waiting for the plan.

One suggestion made was midwives with Bryant pointing out they like obstetricians don’t want to leave a major center such as Winnipeg and the amenities it offers and they would need access to an obstetrician and anesthetist if an emergency arises. It was noted we as a community need to help find ways to attract doctors and their families.