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Emergency Department

Author: Carey Solomon

Accreditation Award 2024

PMH Receives National Accreditation Recognition

Prairie Mountain Health (PMH) is pleased to announce that it recently received its national accreditation designation‬—its third since the health region was formed in 2012—following on-site surveys that took place in the region in May. Accreditation Canada affirmed PMH was successful meeting 97 per cent of surveyed criteria. PMH also met 23 out of 30 Required Organizational Practices (ROPs). Prairie Mountain Health CEO Treena Slate says Accreditation Canada’s Qmentum framework affects everyone in the organization and helps assess all aspects of operations, from Board and Leadership, to care and services, to infrastructure.

“The survey results reinforce what we know, and what we are so proud of, which is the professionalism of our staff, our accreditation teams, physicians and health partners who are dedicated to providing care to the patients, residents and clients that we serve,” Slate stated. “This designation demonstrates PMH’s commitment towards quality improvement efforts by continually monitoring, evaluating and enhancing all of our programs and services to provide better care within our region”.
Accreditation Canada, which conducted the on-site assessments May 26- May 31, helps improve outcomes through independent assessments against global standards. Some highlights noted within the final report included:

  • The survey team, consisting of 17 surveyors from across Canada, evaluated PMH programs and services against 23 standards sets across 49 locations in multiple programs and services;
  • Since the last review in 2022, surveyors noted PMH has successfully managed through the COVID-19 pandemic. The patient’s focus group recognized the efforts of the staff in supporting patients and the community throughout this unprecedented period;
  • Stakeholder and health partner engagement was acknowledged and recognized. PMH works to obtain feedback from patients on their programs and services to advance quality care and ensure there is constant connections with individuals served;
  • Recruitment and retention of staff remains a challenge. Surveyors noted the region continues to advance strategies to hire appropriate staff, often engaging in innovative approaches. Educational partners, municipal officials, and community partners recognize the challenges facing the organization while, at the same time, confirming the commitment that PMH has made to engage with them and deliver on shared solutions;
  • Surveyors also noted the lack of a consistent electronic patient record across the system. Additional work is required to modernize medication administration systems.

View complete accreditation results.

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Annual General Meeting 2023-24

Prairie Mountain Health holds Annual General Meeting

Prairie Mountain Health (PMH) wrapped up its 12th full year of operations during its Annual General Meeting (AGM) October 30, 2024. PMH Board Chair Lon Cullen said reviewing fiscal year 2023-2024 allowed interested community representatives, health stakeholders and partners, staff and residents to learn more about the region’s strategic priorities, objectives and financial position.

“Communication with our partners and stakeholders regarding health care within our communities and region as a whole is a top priority,” Cullen stated. The AGM is another way we are able to provide a status report on PMH activities and an opportunity to keep residents and communities engaged at the same time.” recap

Prairie Mountain Health CEO Treena Slate says the AGM also provides the opportunity to reflect back on accomplishments, acknowledge the challenges and opportunities for improvement that lie ahead, and move forward with a focus on future program and service planning.

“We’re making great strides in several areas as our recent Accreditation Report notes although we know there is much more work to do,” Slate said. “We acknowledge and sincerely appreciate the commitment of our staff—our most valuable resource. They continue to give of themselves with unwavering dedication, care and compassion. To our staff, thank you for all that you do!”

This past year saw the region undergo its third national accreditation survey, which found PMH met 97 per cent of surveyed criteria. Other AGM highlights noted were:

  • The Region focused on it’s Strategic Plan (2023-2028) that identified the health region’s four key priorities aimed at building a healthier population and creating a quality, integrated and sustainable health system through collaboration and informed-decision-making.
  • Patient and family engagement, along with patient-centered care, remained key objectives for PMH.
  • Several key capital projects were in varying stages, including construction on the new Neepawa Health Centre, clinical spaces renovations at Brandon and Dauphin Regional Health Centres and Western Manitoba Cancer Centre.
  • A building addition for a new cancer care unit in Russell and enhanced space for a new CT Scanner in Swan River were finalized in the spring of 2024. Both of the projects received significant financial contributions from local communities.
  • Emergency Department renovations in Virden, Killarney and Souris were completed. These refreshed treatment spaces now provide dedicated space for registration and triage, greater privacy, wayfinding and better sight lines for staff.
  • Various recruitment and retention strategies for physicians, nurses and other health care-professionals remained a priority area and several activities to sustain, enhance and develop capacity within the workforce continued. The region has seen some recent recruitment success including new specialist and nurse practitioner hires.
  • The region continues making strides on improving mental health and addictions services. Enhancements to in-house treatment services, support and treatment programs and community mental health improvements were continuing throughout the year.
  • PMH’s Mobile Clinic passed a significant milestone in February, marking 10 years since the first primary care bus in the Province began providing access to services where some care barriers remain. Currently, the Indigenous communities of Birdtail Sioux First Nation, Ebb and Flow First Nation, O-Chi-Chak-Ko-Sipi First Nation and Keeseekoowenin First Nation receive regular visits. The communities of Canupawakpa Dakota First Nation, Skownan First Nation, Sioux Valley First Nation, Tootinaowaziibeeng First Nation and Waterhen also receive regular Nurse Practitioner services from Mobile Clinic providers.
  • PMH experienced an operating deficit in 2023/24 of $29.7 million after having balanced its operating budget the previous year. This was largely related to the increase in salary expenses related to the use of agency and overtime to maintain current service levels. A financial accountability working group has been established to look at fiscal sustainability initiatives and cost savings opportunities going forward.

Complete 2023-2024 Annual Report

Audited financial report

All other regional reports

Watch the recorded meeting

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Employee Support

Support is available to our healthcare staff during strike action

We acknowledge the potential psychological and emotional impact strike action may have on healthcare workers during this period. This can be especially strong following the pandemic. We know this time may feel uncertain, and stress levels can be high. Support is available to you whenever you may need it.

Even though the strike is no longer forthcoming, you still may feel the need for personal support.

Supports available to all staff:

  • Access support through your wellbeing team at 1-844-820-2010 between the hours of 7:00 a.m. and 7:00
    • This is a one-on-one support line for all staff. Call to speak with our dedicated Wellbeing Leaders for personalized support. They are here for you to listen, provide support, and connect you with any appropriate resources to help you navigate this challenging time.
  • Drop-in virtual wellbeing practice sessions for all staff: Dates and times to be announced.
  • Supports available through your Manager: Wellbeing Check-Ins and On-Site or Virtual Drop-In
  • Supports available through your Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
    • Access support from your Manitoba Blue Cross EAP 24/7 at 204-786-8880 or 1-800-590-5553 (toll free) or [email protected]
  • Support for leaders: Consultation support is available to assist leaders in supporting their team and organizing services on-site or virtually.

Other Resources

Stress Reactions During a Labour Dispute

Why a labour dispute can feel stressful?

Strike actions impact everyone differently. Some will have modified duties or increased workloads and others will be
on the picket lines. Emotions can run high for everyone, from employees to patients and their families. Leaders will
need to balance keeping operations running with supporting their teams’ wellbeing. Patients and their families may
have questions or concerns about the changes that are unfolding around them.

It’s normal to feel stressed during a strike. Our bodies and minds react to the uncertainty and changes around us.
The longer the strike lasts, the more stress we might feel, similar to other crises but over a longer period.
During a strike, we may have physical symptoms like headaches, tiredness, trouble sleeping, or an upset stomach.
Mentally, we may find it hard to concentrate, feel distracted or confused, or have negative thoughts. Emotionally,
feelings like frustration, anger, fear, or anxiety are common. Some people may feel numb or detached. This stress
can also affect our behaviour, like withdrawing from our relationships or everyday activities.

Not everyone will react in the same way. How we feel depends on factors like the stress we’re already carrying from
current or past events such as the pandemic. For those already under a lot of pressure, the strike can feel even more
overwhelming. However, past challenges can remind us of how we’ve coped before and what has helped us through
tough times.

What you can do for yourself during this time:

  1. Monitor Your Perceptions: A strike is tough for everyone. We may start feeling blame or guilt which can
    affect our relationship with coworkers. When we are tired, it can be harder to show compassion to others. It’s
    helpful to remember that we will still be working together after the strike is over.
  2. Stay Informed: Knowing what’s happening can reduce anxiety and uncertainty.
  3. Build a Support Network: Connect with your peers and build support. Sharing feelings and concerns with
    coworkers can help. It’s also okay to take time for yourself to focus on other activities and interests.
  4. Practice Self-Care: Prioritizing self-care activities you enjoy can to help reduce stress.
  5. Stay Active: Movement releases endorphins which supports our moods.
  6. Limit News Consumption: While staying informed is important, too much exposure to news, can increase
    anxiety for some.
  7. Practice Mindfulness, Grounding and/or Breathing: Mindfulness techniques can help you stay grounded
    and manage stress.
  8. Advocate for Your Needs: If you need specific accommodations or support during this time, don’t hesitate to ask.
  9. Know Your Rights: Be aware of your rights and obligations as an employee. This can reduce anxiety about
    potential repercussions.
  10. Seek Professional Help: If you find yourself struggling with anxiety, depression, or other challenges,
    consider seeking professional help. Please see resources below.
    Resources
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Provincial Strike Information

Tentative agreement has been reached with both CUPE and MGEU

We are pleased to share that a tentative agreement has been reached with both CUPE and MGEU. This means that the anticipated work stoppage scheduled to begin earlier today will not occur at this time. A ratification process will unfold over the coming weeks.

Work to resume normal operations and reschedule affected appointments will occur over the coming days. For most patients, residents and clients, health-care services will continue as planned today.

Some disruption can still be expected for patients and clients whose appointments and surgeries may have been postponed in anticipation of a work stoppage.

If you have been affected by a change in service or some other disruption to your scheduled health services, you can expect to be contacted directly with an update or a rescheduled appointment.

We are working with our teams to support a smooth return to normal operations and appreciate your ongoing understanding as our dedicated staff do their best to support the care of all patients, residents and clients.

We recognize the planning work for a potential work stoppage may have caused disruption and frustration for you and your loved ones – we appreciate your patience during this time.

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Russell Community Cancer Care

Construction complete at Community Cancer Care Centre in Russell

August 21, 2024

Dignitaries, stakeholders and staff cutting the ribbon to Russell's Cancer Care Building.
Dignitaries, stakeholders and staff gathered to officially cut the ribbon to the new $2.5 million cancer care building adjoined to the Russell Health Centre on August 21, 2024.

Construction to expand Community Cancer Program space at Russell Health Centre has now been completed, and the significant milestone was recognized today with a grand opening celebration. The $2.5 million building expansion, which went into use in mid-July, improves patient experience and access to cancer treatment services for Russell and the surrounding region. The building addition is roughly four times the size of the former space located within the hospital and offers larger patient care areas and improved workspace for staff.

“We’re so proud of the exceptional quality of care delivered by CancerCare here in Russell, and this expansion project will only improve that quality of care for patients,” said Minister of Health, Seniors and Long Term Care Uzoma Asagwara. “Thank you to the dedicated community members who worked to make this expansion a reality. Your hard work will help more Manitobans hear those four amazing words: ‘you are cancer-free'”.

The Expanding Community Cancer Care Committee (ECCC) raised the majority of the funding to construct the 3300 sq. ft building addition, which is aptly named the Community Cancer Care Centre. The province committed $700,000 towards the building addition, which included:

Staff and reception area to the newly expanded Cancer Care Unit at Russell Health Centre
Staff and reception area to the newly expanded Cancer Care Unit at Russell Health Centre
  • relocation of the dedicated nursing station and medication storage area;
  • creation of a dedicated patient washroom, nourishment area, and a small waiting area; and
  • expanded patient care spaces to improve patient privacy.

The Expanding Community Cancer Care (ECCC) committee includes membership from the communities of Angusville, Beulah, Binscarth, Birtle, Foxwarren, Inglis, Langenburg, Sask., Roblin, Rossburn, Russell, St. Lazare, Shellmouth, Silverton, Solsgirth and Waywayseecappo.

“After almost 10 years of fundraising for a new cancer care unit at the Russell Health Centre, we are delighted that this long-awaited project is now a reality,” said Gloria Tibbatts, co-chair, ECCC committee. “Our dream has been fulfilled, and the benefits will serve many. We would like to thank the people from around our region who have supported us. The power of community and of our donors is what made this possible, and we want to thank you from the bottom of our hearts”.

A celebration barbecue was held for staff and stakeholders following the grand opening event at Russell Health Centre.
A celebration barbecue was held for staff and stakeholders following the grand opening event at Russell Health Centre.

Prairie Mountain Health has collaborated with health partners and stakeholders to plan for the necessary building and construction costs and associated timelines for this important capital project.

The regional health authority will contribute annual operating costs related to the expansion, including staffing and supplies.

“We are very grateful to the Expanding Community Cancer Care committee for their vision, hard work and dedication in fundraising for this expansion,” said Treena Slate, Chief Executive Officer, Prairie Mountain Health. “Cancer is a journey, and this new addition will better serve patients and families travelling for care in a more comfortable setting.”

“The expansion of the Community Cancer Program in Russell is a testament to the power of community spirit. By bringing high-quality care closer to home, we are working together to improve access for our cancer patients and honouring the local community’s incredible support and generosity,” said Dr. Navaratnam, President & CEO, CancerCare Manitoba “This project is a shining example of what we can achieve together”.

Russell Cancer Centre Parking lot construction.
Construction on the additional parking lot has commenced. The $800,000 separate project is also being completely funded by the Expanding Community Cancer Committee.

A separate project has just begun with the construction of a new community cancer centre parking lot. The parking lot, which the Expanding Community Cancer Committee is completely funding, is anticipated to be completed this October.

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Louis Riel Day

Louis Riel Day

On Louis Riel Day and every day, Prairie Mountain Health recognizes that we provide health services on the homeland of the Red River Métis Nation and on the original lands of First Nations and Inuit Peoples. Manitoba’s health authorities respect that First Nations treaties were made on these territories, acknowledge harms and mistakes, and we dedicate ourselves to collaborate in partnership with First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples in the spirit of reconciliation.

As we pursue equitable and trusted pathways to care for all Manitobans, we thank health-care workers of Métis ancestry for your efforts and commitment as members of a team dedicated to excellent patient care. Shared Health encourages all who deliver health services on the original lands of First Nations and Inuit peoples, and on the homeland of the Métis Nation to recognize our ongoing obligation to the delivery of culturally safe care.

Health-care workers – and all Manitobans – are encouraged to take time to learn more about the contributions of Louis Riel and Métis peoples to our province.

Events in Prairie Mountain Health

Here are just a few events happening in our region for anyone to attend.

Events around the Province

  • Friday, Feb. 16 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. – Join the Office of the Vice-President (Indigenous) to celebrate Louis Riel Day at University of Manitoba’s Marshall McLuhan Hall, 204-UMSU University Centre! This free event will include short remarks, music (a fiddle jam session!) and lunch.
  • Feb. 16 – 25, Festival du Voyageur – Western Canada’s largest winter festival for the whole family with lots of entertainment including music, dancing, jigging, French-Canadian food, meeting historical characters, sculptures and much more.
  • Monday, Feb. 19 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. – Experience the life of a Voyageur with a Marsh twist during Voyageur Day at Oak Hammock Marsh! Try their friendly Voyageur-themed contests, competitions and games. Participate in their “Concours des Meilleurs” and take home some great bragging rights!
  • Sunday, Feb. 18 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. – The Richer Métis Local is hosting a Louis Riel Day Celebration at the Richer Young at Heart Hall located at 22 Dawson Rd. W in Richer, Manitoba that includes performers, kids activities as well as a hot meal of chili, bannock and hotdogs.
  • Monday, Feb. 19 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. – Journée Louis Riel / Louis Riel Day at Le Musée de Saint-Boniface in collaboration with the Manitoba Métis Federation featuring free admission, free bannock, launch of Tracy Charette Fehr’s project “Honouring our Mothers” and more.
  • Monday, Feb. 19 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. – Set your inner voyageur free at FortWhyte Alive! Spend Louis Riel Day playing voyageur games with FortWhyte volunteers, and enjoy some friendly competition between your family! Try your hand at tug-o-war, a voyageur relay, and other fun games.
  • Monday, Feb. 19 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. – Celebrate Louis Riel Day at The Forks for a day filled with family-friendly festivities, like: lively dance parties and lessons for the whole family, engaging arts and crafts, specially crafted kid menus and mocktails, and, of course, winter activities, attractions, and amenities that are unique to The Forks.
  • Monday, Feb. 19 – Freeze Frame Media Arts Centre for Young People will be presenting free movies for families at Dave Barber Cinematheque (100 Arthur Street) on Louis Riel Day.
  • More Louis Riel Day events.
  • Manitoba is once again offering free park entry for the entire month of February so Manitobans and visitors can take advantage of the many winter activities available in provincial parks.
  • Manitobans are encouraged to get outside and explore fishing opportunities throughout the province during this year’s Winter Family Fishing Weekend. From Feb. 17 to Feb. 19, anglers may fish without a licence in the province, except in national parks where a federal angling licence is still required.
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Prairie Mountain Health Announces New CEO

Prairie Mountain Health Announces New CEO

The Board of Directors of Prairie Mountain Health (PMH) is pleased to announce that Treena Slate has accepted the position of Chief Executive Officer (CEO). Slate will assume the role from Brian Schoonbaert, who will retire effective April 5, 2024.

The Board expressed sincere thanks and appreciation for Schoonbaert’s commitment, dedication and strong leadership as CEO of the health region. “Brian’s commitment to providing quality health care and supporting all PMH staff, physicians and volunteers has always been evident. All who have worked with him will miss Brian’s positive, welcoming, genuine approach.”

Lon Cullen, Board Chair, is pleased to welcome Slate to the role of Chief Executive Officer. “Treena is a familiar face for many in Prairie Mountain Health and the province. With over 30 years in healthcare and 15 years in a leadership role, Treena is bringing a wealth of experience and knowledge into the role of Chief Executive Officer.”

The PMH Board of Directors undertook an extensive search across Canada for a CEO to replace Schoonbaert. Included in the recruitment process, the Board of Directors asked PMH staff what they felt were important qualities for the Chief Executive Officer. “We appreciate that PMH staff took the time to provide their input into the selection criteria, and the Board was able to use this feedback in selecting candidates,” Cullen commented. “Those that know Treena recognize her compassion, openness, decisiveness and energy, which will be important qualities to lead Prairie Mountain Health in these challenging times.”

Slate is excited to be stepping into the CEO role. “I am following in some incredible footsteps – Brian will be truly missed by all who worked with him. Prairie Mountain Health has an incredible team of over 7,500 individuals providing quality health care to the residents of PMH – and I feel very fortunate to work alongside these dedicated staff.”

Slate has held many roles during her years in healthcare, including a staff nurse, educator, public health nurse, manager, director and most recently, Regional Lead – Acute Care Services and Chief Nursing Officer for Prairie Mountain Health.

Slate recently completed her Master of Health Administration through the Johnson Shoyoma School of Public Policy in 2023.

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Dauphin Regional Health Centre announces the arrival of its New Year’s Babies

Dauphin Regional Health Centre announces the arrival of its New Year’s Babies – Twins!

Mom Brittany holding Avery with Dad Kyle holding Harper

The Dauphin Regional Health Centre is pleased to announce the arrival of the first babies born at the Health Centre in 2024. Say hello to ‘twin girls’ and congratulations to proud parents Brittany and Kyle Eden of Ashville, MB.

Baby girl Avery was delivered at 3:00 p.m. on January 1, 2024 and her sister Harper was right behind at 3:02 p.m. Avery weighed in at 6 lbs. 9 oz and Harper weighed in at 6 lbs. 6 oz.

Management and Staff of the Dauphin Regional Health Centre and Prairie Mountain Health extend their congratulations and best wishes to the family!

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Nursing Info Session

Virtual Information Session for Nursing Students

Are you a Manitoba nursing student in your final year of study?

Join us at one of our virtual nursing career information sessions coming up on Monday, Dec. 18!

This free information session will offer you:

  • Information on opportunities, supports, and incentives that may be available to you
  • Advice from recent nursing graduates about transitioning to the workforce
  • Guidance from health care recruiters and nursing leaders on applying for jobs and the opportunity to ask questions

Please note that we will be offering sessions at two time slots – one at 12 p.m. and one at 7 p.m. – via the GoTo Webinar platform.

Register Now!
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CEO retirement notice

Prairie Mountain Health CEO provides retirement notice

Board of Directors begins recruitment process

The Board of Directors of Prairie Mountain Health announced today that CEO Brian Schoonbaert will be retiring effective April 5, 2024. An extensive recruitment process for a new Chief Executive Officer is now underway. In acknowledging receipt of his retirement notice at its October meeting, Board of Directors Chairperson Lon Cullen stated:

“It is with mixed emotions that the PMH Board accepted Brian Schoonbaert’s notice of retirement.
Brian’s commitment to providing quality health care and supporting all PMH staff, physicians and volunteers has always been evident. All who have worked with him will miss Brian’s positive, welcoming and genuine approach”.

PMH CEO Brian Schoonbaert

Schoonbaert’s career in health care has spanned over 35 years – initially as a Finance Director for BGTW (Baldur, Glenboro, Treherne and Wawanesa), then as Vice President – Finance and Information Services for Brandon General Hospital and Brandon RHA. In 2011, he became Chief Executive Officer for Brandon RHA.

With the amalgamations of health regions in 2012, Schoonbaert assumed the role of Vice President, Finance, Capital, Support Services and Chief Operating Officer of BRHC for Prairie Mountain Health. In 2018, he was seconded to the Manitoba Transformation Management Office (TMO), leading several initiatives for the TMO. And in 2021, Schoonbaert assumed the role of Chief Executive Officer for Prairie Mountain Health.

Cullen added: “Brian is looking forward to spending time with family – his wife Mary Anne, their six children and 18 grandchildren. We thank Brian for his commitment, passion, and dedication to Prairie Mountain Health. We wish him a happy and healthy retirement!”

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