Letter to the Editor -
Dear Editor: The following letter had been sent to Larry Bradley, chairperson, Labrador-Grenfell Health, Happy Valley-Goose Bay.
Dear Sir:
At a recent council meeting, I was asked to write you with regard to the staffing shortage at the Strait of Belle Isle Health Centre. We are appalled at the resignation of Agnes White, laboratory and x-ray technician, because of the excessive workload. No one can work 24-7 and this situation can not be considered a standard workload. There ought to be two laboratory and x-ray technicians in order to meet the needs of the citizens of this area.
Furthermore, our citizens demand that Ms. White be reinstated immediately and another technician be hired to ensure the quality of health care is established and maintained. As you should be aware, Ms. White had worked at the health centre for over 14 years.
From discussions and comments made by adult patients and the parents of children needing the services of a laboratory and x-ray technician, Ms. White has performed effectively and efficiently. Her professional and personal qualities have helped many of our citizens in need of these essential services.
We would like you to consider and understand the following concerns (the board members might like to put their kinfolk and themselves in these situations):
1. An individual cannot be expected to work 24-7 with no time off for family and friends; (there is always the spectre of a mistake on account of fatigue from overwork).
2. The distance from most homes in this area is far enough to the Strait of Belle Isle Health Centre, especially in bad winter weather; however, if residents are forced to travel to St. Anthony or Corner Brook in the dead of winter for their treatment, it becomes a crime.
3. Our aging population needs these essential services without having to endure the cost and danger of travel to larger centres.
4. Some patients have complications at various times during the days and the nights. Emergencies occur which need immediate help. Therefore, two qualified laboratory and x-ray technicians (sharing 24-7) would provide the peace of mind and security that our citizens need from our health authority.
We believe that the Labrador-Grenfell Health Authority should immediately correct this problem before there is a catastrophe.
Keith Billard
Mayor, Flowers Cove
.jpg)
.jpg)
