Brandon Regional Health Centre Auxiliary contributes over last year
Brandon Regional Health Centre Auxiliary contributes over last year
The Brandon Regional Health Centre (BRHC) Auxiliary capped the last year by generously contributing to new equipment purchases for the Brandon Regional Health Centre and Western Manitoba Cancer Centre (WMCC). The contributions for 30 capital equipment pieces totaled close to $304 thousand. Equipment purchases included:
Two Bladder Scanners totaling just over $34,000.
These are portable ultrasound devices used to quickly and non-invasively measure urine volume in the bladder, helping assess for urinary retention or incomplete emptying. These units help to prevent unnecessary catheterizations. One unit was purchased for BRHC and one for WMCC.
Ultrasound for PICC placement – for Outpatient Care Unit totaling just over $35,000.
An ultrasound used to place a peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC), which helps to avoid repeated needle sticks for treatments lasting weeks or months.
Eight Maternity Unit Beds totaling $69,588.
Replacing current beds which are end of life.
Nineteen new Beds for the A3 Unit at a cost of $165,272.
Replacing current beds which are end of life.
Prairie Mountain Health and Brandon Regional Health Centre sincerely thank the BRHC Auxiliary for their continued support to the benefit of patients across Western Manitoba.
Prairie Mountain Health Welcomes New Year’s Babies | 2026
Prairie Mountain Health Welcomes New Year’s Babies | 2026
Brandon
Welcome Brielle! Brandon Regional Health Centre’s 2026 New Year’s baby was born January 1 at 1:16 am. Proud parents are Kendra Henry & Aaron Dayton of Virden. Brielle received a lovely gift basket from the BRHC Gift Shop & flowers from Carolyn’s Floral Designs. Congratulations from Prairie Mountain Health and the Brandon Regional Health Centre.
Dauphin
Welcome Jack! Dauphin Regional Health Centre’s 2026 New Year’s baby was born on January 1 at 1:54 am. Proud parents are Holly & Joel Warkentin of Fork River. Congratulations from Prairie Mountain Health and Dauphin Regional Health Centre.
PMH begins site visits with MLPIMG physicians destined to practice next fall
PMH begins site visits with MLPIMG physicians destined to practice next fall
When it comes to doctor recruitment within Prairie Mountain Health, the region’s Recruitment and Retention Team feels it’s ‘all hands-on deck’. Which is to say, it truly does take representatives from the province, region and individual communities to all work together to promote the benefits of living and working in rural Manitoba.
One of the initiatives the region utilizes as part of overall physician recruitment strategies includes the provincial Medical Licensure Program for International Medical Graduates (MLPIMG). The MLPIMG Program assists foreign-trained doctors in obtaining their medical license to be able to practice as a family physician in Manitoba. PMH has sponsored seven physicians during the year 2025-2026 and has begun individually introducing each of the candidates to the communities they will be practicing in following their successful graduation from the program in summer of 2026.
Tamara Kemp-Boulet, Physician Recruitment and Retention Coordinator for the health region says the physicians were designated to be placed at various sites within PMH communities that require additional physician resources.
“The seven internationally trained doctors have signed return-of-service agreements requiring them to work in rural communities within the health region,” she said. “Communities allocated for this graduating class include Killarney, Minnedosa, Ste. Rose, Russell, Rossburn and Shoal Lake starting in the fall.”
Husband and wife Shamsudeen and Olamide Usman are among those who were recruited by PMH through the University of Manitoba Medical Licensure Program for International Medical Graduates.
The Usmans will finish the one-year training program this June in Winnipeg before they begin practicing family medicine at the Tri-Lake Health Centre in Killarney in fall.
Doctors Karen Aquino and Moazzam Raza will be based in Minnedosa, Dr. Saleema Arif will practice in Ste. Rose, Dr. Porimol Debnath will be in Russell and Dr. Ana Hernandez will provide care in Rossburn and Shoal Lake, Kemp-Boulet said.
All of these communities were identified as having a shortage of doctors, and recruitment efforts continue for other areas in PMH, she said.
PMH organizes site visits for new physicians, so they can get accustomed to relocating to an area that suits their needs. These visits can include checking out daycares, schools, recreation activities, touring the health-care facility and meeting with council members and real estate agents, Kemp-Boulet said.
In 2025, the region sponsored eight physicians to participate in the MLPIMG program. They were placed in the communities of Swan River (3), Roblin (2), Neepawa, Virden and Souris.
In return for regional sponsorship, MLPIMG doctors agree to practice in their respective communities for four years. The Program is supported by the University of Manitoba —Max Rady College of Medicine, the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Manitoba, Shared Health-Health Care Recruitment and Retention Office, and Manitoba Health, Seniors and Long-Term Care.
Indigenous Health a cornerstone of PMH health services and planning
Indigenous Health a cornerstone of PMH health services and planning
Prairie Mountain Health (PMH) has launched a new Indigenous Health Strategy. This strategy reflects PMH’s commitment to working together with Indigenous Peoples in a spirit of respect, understanding, and truth. PMH acknowledges the lasting effects of historical and systemic inequities and is committed to creating safe, inclusive health care spaces by addressing racism and discrimination across the region. This strategic direction sets the context for focused advocacy and community engagement.
Indigenous Patient Advocacy
Indigenous Health Patient Advocate Karen Spence (at right) speaks with Swan Valley Health Centre Clinical Resource Nurse Lanaya Zaretsky.
The health region includes 14 First Nation communities, three regions of the Manitoba Métis Federation, and 15 Northern Affairs (Métis) communities. The Indigenous Health Team in PMH fosters connections between Indigenous individuals, communities, and health-care providers to promote health equity and culturally safe care. This initiative supports Indigenous patients accessing PMH services. Among other designated positions, the Indigenous Health program includes a Community Liaison and Patient Advocates who serve to support individual and communities.
Karen Spence serves as an Indigenous Health Patient Advocate North, based at the Swan Valley Health Centre in Swan River. She has held this position since late August, and her role also encompasses the Roblin and Russell area.
An Indigenous Patient Advocate provides support to patients and families by assisting with family meetings, reviewing and discussing care plans, and supporting discharge planning. They are part of the PMH team that meets regularly with First Nation communities to discuss health services and works to improve services, guide individuals in accessing and navigating various health services, and facilitate spiritual and cultural care. The advocate’s help to ensure patients’ needs are met throughout their health care journey and after discharge, supporting a culturally safe environment at every stage.
“I grew up in the Metis community of Briggs Spur, MB., surrounded by a large extended family,” Spence said.
“Once my family received treaty rights, I became a band member of Wuskwi Sipihk First Nation, where I was given many opportunities for employment as a young adult in band administration. This employment has provided me with many communication skills that I still use to this day and has created a large network of Indigenous people, partners, and stakeholders. I have always called the Swan River area my home.”
Building on these relationships, traditions, and culture, respect is central to the advocacy role. Open communication with Indigenous partners is essential, along with a continued focus on building and strengthening trusted relationships.
“I’ve made many connections with Indigenous clients, whether it’s through daily visits or providing them with a private smudging ceremony,” Spence said. “I have also communicated with their respective family members should the need arise once a discharge has been determined, ensuring that they have the support they need at home, usually assisting them with finding resources they require.”
Prairie Mountain Health is building partnerships with Indigenous communities in the PMH region by facilitating ‘Services to Services’ meetings between First Nations community health offices and PMH staff, including Indigenous Health.
PMH Regional Manager- Indigenous Health Shawna Mozdzen
Shawna Mozdzen is the Regional Manager- Indigenous Health for PMH. Mozdzen, who previously served as a Community Liaison in the region, says these collaborative meetings are important.
“This gives all involved stakeholders the opportunity to sit at the same table and talk about what is going well between the community and facility and what barriers need to be addressed,” Mozdzen said.
“Together, we can work on some of the issues, such as discharge planning, transportation, racism and discrimination, and navigating Non-Insured Health Benefits (NIHB) to help our clients find the resources that they need. Our Indigenous Health team is enjoying getting to know the health office staff in the communities and building trusted relationships with them.”
PMH remains committed to educating staff about Indigenous ways of knowing and being, with ongoing training as needed. Spence says staff are becoming increasingly aware of Indigenous Health resources, as well as her advocacy role.
“There is continued and growing respect around smudging, spiritual needs, and advocacy services. I am always open to suggestions and constructive dialogue where people with different views share ideas to understand each other better and to find a common ground,” Spence stated.
To reach the Indigenous Health Patient Advocate North, you can contact: 431-363-0907 or Email: [email protected]
Capital Construction Project Update | December 2025
Capital Construction Project Update | December 2025
Neepawa Health Centre
An aerial view facing southeast as the new Neepawa Health Centre continues to take shape.
As the festive holiday season approaches this year, it’s hard not to begin to envision how things might look around this time in Neepawa next Christmas. Construction on the new Neepawa Health Centre continues to progress nicely and is now approximately 75 percent complete!
From both the ground and the air, the 39-acre site is impressive with grading, walkways, garden and parking lot development clearly visible. The healing garden and outdoor patio areas are taking shape, and two of five parking lots are also clearly seen. The Town of Neepawa and Province of Manitoba have completed the base work for the Hamilton Road extension, turn off from Hwy. 16, and roundabout at the main hospital entrance. A helipad is also nearly complete at the new site.
View of healing garden, outdoor patios, main entrance and helipad looking northeast.
Work on the building’s interior has been moving forward rapidly with nearly every area undergoing full construction. The interior areas are being finished sequentially, with some areas installing interior finishes such as flooring, millwork, and wall protection. Other areas are in framing and mechanical/electrical rough-in stage, and still others are installing drywall and paint. The construction site is operating 7 days/week and has 300-350 tradespeople working onsite daily. Focus will remain on the interiors throughout the winter months.
The new hospital is being built east of Neepawa on the north side of the Yellowhead highway near the Lions Campground.
It will be approximately three and a half times the size of the existing hospital and will better serve patients from this broader western Manitoba geographic area. Once completed, features of the new health centre will include:
Neepawa Health Centre patio and healing garden area.
60 acute care inpatient beds, up from 35 at the current Neepawa site.
an expanded emergency department designed to best practice standards that include treatment and assessment rooms, trauma rooms and an ambulance bay.
a hemodialysis suite with nine dialysis stations.
enhanced space for several other programs, such as surgery, diagnostics, palliative care, birthing services, as well as outpatient services like chemotherapy (6 treatment stations) and therapy services.
Prairie Mountain Health anticipates we will see the first patient in the new facility in early 2027.
Brandon Clinical Spaces Project
Aerial view of the BRHC Critical Care expansion in early December 2025.
Construction to expand clinical spaces within the Brandon Regional Health Centre campus is entering the final stages of completion. The Critical Care building comprises a 16-bed Intensive Care Unit (ICU) and 30-bed Internal Medicine Unit. Both units are an exciting addition to the Brandon and Westman area. Each patient room is single occupancy with large windows, allowing natural light to flow in. The color schematics provide a warm and welcoming environment for patients and families, visitors and staff. Staff tours have taken place, and staff are eagerly planning how they will work in these new spaces.
During these latter construction stages interior finishing work continues, which includes the arrival of new equipment and furnishings. Work in the courtyard area and other exterior finishing is also taking place.
Indigenous elder Deborah Tacan performs a blessing ceremony within the new unit.
Once the building is turned over to PMH, orientation and training will begin. PMH anticipates first patients arriving early in 2026.
PMH health facilities are located onTreaty 1, 2, and 4 Territories, the original lands of the Dakota, Anishinaabe, Cree, Oji-Cree, and the National Homeland of the Red River Métis. On Nov. 12, PMH hosted an Indigenous Blessing Ceremony in the new critical care building led by elder Deborah Tacan. The Blessing Ceremony was a very moving event, attended by staff and some of the construction staff as well. PMH is very grateful to Deborah for her positive spiritual ceremony.
Brandon Fairview Home
Prairie Mountain Health is pleased to unveil the new name of Brandon Fairview Home’s first floor care unit. It will be called the ‘Enhanced Support Centre.’ The Centre will provide additional supports to assist personal care home (PCH) residents that require specialized care for a period of time.
Once complete, the new unit will include space for:
12 single resident rooms.
activity and dining rooms.
secure outdoor courtyard space.
tub/shower room.
quiet room, and
clinical care areas.
Construction has progressed smoothly through late fall. Current drywall, flooring and painting work continues. Furnishings and equipment for the new areas have also been ordered.
It’s anticipated that the first residents within the new unit will occur sometime in 2026.
As we approach the festive season, it’s hard to believe how quickly the year has passed. With Winter now upon us, I encourage everyone to take extra care during these busy weeks ahead – whether that means allowing additional time for travel, avoiding strain when shoveling snow or decorating, or walking cautiously when conditions are icy.
The holiday season can be especially challenging for those who are unable to be with loved ones. Our staff continue to demonstrate exceptional compassion and commitment, providing comfort and support to patients, residents and community members throughout the year. We are deeply grateful to our staff and their dedication to those we serve!
Here are some helpful reminders for the season:
Visitation options: If an in-person visit isn’t possible, consider providing a personal device, such as a phone or tablet, to help your loved one stay connected.
Send Well Wishes: Visit the PMH Well Wishes page to share a message with patients or residents. It’s a simple way to brighten someone’s day! A direct link can be found here: https://www.prairiemountainhealth.ca/pmh-well-wishes.
Mental Health Support: For those coping with grief, loss, or stress, resources are available through PMH Mental Health Services: https://www.pmh-mb.ca/mental-health.
Give Back: Consider local initiatives such as a hospital or community foundation, food bank, or meal program to help those in need.
As you celebrate, whether it be by decorating, spending time with family and friends, enjoying traditions or volunteering, our wish is that your holiday is filled with joy, peace and meaningful moments.
On behalf of the PMH Board of Directors, Executive Management Team, and our staff, we wish everyone a safe, healthy and happy holiday season and all the best in 2026.
Members of the Russell Hospital Auxiliary (l-r) Virginia Beelaert, Anne Petz, Alice Coulter, RN Anna Chipelski, Ethel Lungal, Annette Ramsden, Judy Preston, Abbey Vorlicek – Care Team Manager for Russell Health Centre, Mina Laycock and Louise Lungal gathered at the Russell Health Centre on Nov. 14, 2025. They presented a Pediatric Crib valued at $13,345 to the staff.
The generous gift was provided with the donations from surrounding Lions Clubs and the ladies from Cancer Care and Palliative Care units as well as from 50/50 ticket sales.
The local hospital is always in need of equipment and supplies that the Manitoba Health Care doesn’t provide.
Primary health-care providers work independently and provide many services
Prairie Mountain Health (PMH) is pleased to announce that four new Nurse Practitioners (NPs) have begun seeing clients within the communities of Rossburn/Shoal Lake, Melita and Canupawakpa First Nation, as well as the Brandon Minor Injury and Illness Clinic and Dauphin Primary Care Outreach Clinic. PMH CEO Treena Slate says recruitment and retention of health-care professionals remains a top priority for the health region and the province, and growing the Grad NP program within the region continues to see great results.
“Along with our health partners and stakeholders, which include our communities, we continue to look for ways to support, recruit and retain healthcare staff within PMH. By having NPs provide services from base locations across our region, we can maintain the provision of primary care closer to home,” Slate said.
“This is great news for the Westman community,” stated Uzoma Asagwara, Minister of Health, Seniors and Long-Term Care. “Nurse practitioners are an excellent addition to primary health services and their unique focus on patient and client-centered care makes them essential partners in creating healthier communities. We welcome these new recruits and wish them a fulfilling career in health care here in Manitoba.”
Slate adds that PMH is collaborating with six more NP students who are currently completing the second year of their NP programs and who are expected to begin working within the health region in the fall of 2026. Upon receiving their full designation, Nurse Practitioners work independently, are accountable to their practice and can provide many services, including:
Completing assessments and physical exams, including pap tests and pre-natal exams.
Diagnosing and managing common medical issues and chronic conditions.
Prescribing medications and therapies.
Ordering diagnostic tests like blood work, x-rays, ultrasounds, CT scans and MRIs.
Performing minor procedures like suturing, biopsies, wart and mole removal; and
Referring to other health providers, including specialists.
For those looking for a Nurse Practitioner or Family Doctor, the Province of Manitoba has a program to help clients find new Primary Care Providers. Visit www.manitoba.ca/familydoctorfinder or call toll-free 1-866-690-8260, to find out more. PMH NPs work with this program when taking on new patients.
As of November 2025, the region has 31 NPs providing service within 30 PMH communities, 11 of which are First Nation communities. Nurse Practitioner services are also provided at medical clinics, 7th Street Health Access Centre in Brandon, the Brandon Emergency Department, Souris acute care, First Nation Health offices, multiple long-term care sites, and the PMH Mobile Clinic (primary care bus).
Kiersten McNabb, Nurse Practitioner Rossburn/ Shoal Lake
“I completed my undergraduate nursing from the U of M in 2013 and now have just completed my Masters Nursing, Nurse Practitioner in October 2025. I was a nurse for over 10 years. I have worked in general surgery, orthopedic surgery, acute medicine and palliative care. Most recently, I was an oncology nurse at Western Manitoba Cancer Centre in Brandon. I am excited to be able to provide primary care to rural Manitoba. The communities I am in have been so welcoming!”
Four new Nurse Practitioners start in PMH Region- From (L-R) are Stacie Gardiner-Graham, Erin Ryback, Jolynn Harder and Kiersten McNabb.
“While attending Brandon University in 2001, I began providing respite care to adults and children with additional needs. I also worked as a health care aide. From those experiences, I moved forward with changing my career plans and degree to the Bachelor of Nursing program at Brandon University. I graduated in 2007. When the opportunity arose for the NP expression of interest, I felt the timing was suited to further my education and advance my nursing practice. I look forward to providing care to residents of Melita, Canupawakpa and surrounding communities.”
Erin Ryback, Nurse Practitioner, Brandon Minor Injury and Illness Clinic
“As a Registered Nurse I have worked in rural and urban, acute and community settings. Most of my time has been spent in the Brandon ER and most recently as a public health nurse and Communicable Disease Coordinator in public health.”
Jolynn Harder, Nurse Practitioner, Dauphin Primary Care Outreach Clinic
“I’ve been a nurse for 11 years; the majority of my career was in the outpatient department/ER at the Ste. Rose General Hospital. I started the Masters of Nursing-NP program-in 2022 through the University of Manitoba.“
More information on Nurse Practitioner services within PMH can be found on our website.
Diabetes Awareness Every Day: Prevention, Care and Local Support
Diabetes Awareness Every Day: Prevention, Care and Local Support
In Canada, someone is diagnosed with diabetes every three minutes.
Diabetes is a condition in which our body can’t control blood sugar properly. This happens because it does not make enough insulin and/or cannot use insulin well. Insulin is what helps move sugar from your blood into your cells for energy. Too much sugar in your blood over time can damage your body and lead to serious health problems, including heart disease, stroke, kidney damage, vision loss, and nerve problems.
The good news is that diabetes can be managed, and many complications can be prevented through healthy habits, regular check-ups, and proper treatment. Many cases of type 2 diabetes can also be delayed or prevented by eating balanced meals, being active, and making healthy lifestyle choices.
Support in Prairie Mountain Health
Diabetes and other chronic conditions impact every aspect of life including physical, emotional, and financial well-being. Managing them day after day requires incredible strength and resilience. Programs within Prairie Mountain Health are here to provide support and guidance, helping individuals stay on track with their wellness journey.
The Chronic Disease Education Program (CDEP) provides practical skills and support to help you manage conditions such as diabetes, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, and kidney disease. We offer personalized one-on-one appointments and interactive group classes to fit your needs.
To learn more about the program and available classes, please visit our website.
The Health Promotion Community Development Team partners with individuals and communities to create environments that make healthy living easier for everyone. We focus on the social determinants of health; factors like income, education, housing, and access to nutritious food, that influence overall well-being.
For example, eating healthy is much simpler when fresh food is affordable and readily available. Our team provides tools, resources, and support to help people overcome these barriers and take charge of their health.
Celebrate, Reflect, and Thrive
This December, take time to reflect on the achievements and progress of the past year, and look forward to beginning the new year as your best self. During this season, focus on healthy habits, enjoy time with friends and family, and savour festive foods in moderation. Staying active can also help you feel your best. For practical tips and ideas, see Healthy Eating for the Holidays and Events-Canada’s Food Guide.
To many, the holidays are about food, fun, and celebrating. However, some come to dread the holidays because of the guilt they feel about indulging in favourite festive foods. This guilt is called food shame, and it is common.
Here are 4 tips to help you feel less guilty while eating your holiday favourites
Be Mindful – Pay attention to hunger and fullness. This can empower you to make healthy choices and allow for more enjoyment and appreciation of the food. Be present with the food and take time to enjoy it whether alone or with your family and friends.
Nourish yourself – Eat satisfying foods regularly throughout the day. This includes short (carbs) and long (protein, fat) energy foods. Include a variety of carbs, protein, fat, fibre, and vitamins and minerals. This helps maintain your body’s energy and mood levels. This also prevents extreme hunger or binging later in the day.
Be kind to yourself – Choose nourishing food while allowing your favourite foods without guilt. We eat different foods for different reasons, and this is normal and okay.
Keep moving – Move in a way that you enjoy, involve your friends or family if you wish. Fresh air is great if it is even for a few minutes.
Remember, dieting and restricting food intake can lead to eating more than you intended. Be gentle with yourself as you navigate the endless messaging of needing to control your food intake. Take time and enjoy all your favourite flavours of the holiday season!
Registered Dietitians Brittney Bartecki and Chantal Morais
