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.
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
The Mental Health & Wellness Resource Finder provides a number of mental health, wellness, and addictions supports and resources for you and those you care about.
Cognitive Behaviour Therapy with Mindfulness (CBTm) is available specifically for health care workers to improve mental well-being: https://cbtm.ca/cbtm-programs/healthcare-workers/
Mindfulness Meditation Videos with Dr. Jo Ann Unger:
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:
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.
Stay Informed: Knowing what’s happening can reduce anxiety and uncertainty.
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.
Practice Self-Care: Prioritizing self-care activities you enjoy can to help reduce stress.
Stay Active: Movement releases endorphins which supports our moods.
Limit News Consumption: While staying informed is important, too much exposure to news, can increase anxiety for some.
Practice Mindfulness, Grounding and/or Breathing: Mindfulness techniques can help you stay grounded and manage stress.
Advocate for Your Needs: If you need specific accommodations or support during this time, don’t hesitate to ask.
Know Your Rights: Be aware of your rights and obligations as an employee. This can reduce anxiety about potential repercussions.
Seek Professional Help: If you find yourself struggling with anxiety, depression, or other challenges, consider seeking professional help. Please see resources below. Resources
World Suicide Prevention Day is September 10. Across the Prairie Mountain Health region, numerous activities are planned in September to recognize the importance of suicide prevention.
The theme for World Suicide Prevention Day is Changing the Narrative on Suicide– with a Call to Action- #starttheconversation. The theme aims to raise awareness about the importance of changing the narrative surrounding suicide and transforming how we perceive this complex issue. Changing the narrative requires systemic change and support. – 1. as outlined by the International Association for Suicide Prevention.
So, let’s start the conversation today. No matter how small, every chat builds a more supportive and understanding society. Together, we can make a difference and prioritize suicide prevention, ensuring everyone gets the help they need. Starting the conversation is a crucial opportunity to shift the narrative around suicide and mental health. Changing the narrative involves addressing several key aspects:
Reducing Stigma: One of the main goals is to break down the stigma associated with mental health issues and suicide. By encouraging open discussions and normalizing conversations about mental health, we can help individuals feel more comfortable seeking help and support.
Promoting Awareness: Increased awareness about the signs of mental health crises and the resources available for help can make a significant difference. Educational opportunities such as safeTALK and Mental Health First Aid can inform people about how to recognize when someone might be at risk and how to approach and support them effectively.
Empowering Conversations: Shifting the narrative means fostering compassionate and non-judgmental conversations. Focusing on listening and understanding is important rather than offering quick solutions or judgments. This can help create a safe space for those struggling to open up.
Highlighting Stories of Hope: Sharing stories of recovery and hope can inspire others and show that change is possible. Hearing about others who have overcome similar struggles can encourage and demonstrate that seeking help can lead to positive outcomes.
Encouraging Help-Seeking Behavior: Emphasizing that seeking help is a sign of strength rather than weakness can encourage people to reach out when they need support. It’s essential to make mental health resources and professional help more accessible and less intimidating. Share SPIN power cards with others! Request on the SPIN website.
Supporting Survivors: Providing support to those who have lost loved ones to suicide is also a vital part of changing the narrative. Check out the SPIN website for more information about the Suicide Bereavement Support Group in Brandon.
By addressing these areas, World Suicide Prevention Day can help reshape how society views and responds to suicide and mental health challenges, ultimately leading to better support systems and reduced rates of suicide.
Talking about suicide is difficult, but there are things you can do. You can listen to people with a non-judgmental ear and remind the person you care for them. You can check in with people regularly to see how they are doing and listen supportively. You do not need to have all the answers. You can let others know they are not alone. You can be aware of resources in your area and introduce people to those resources.
Events in Brandon:
In Brandon, The Suicide Prevention Implementation Network (SPIN) Is offering a chance for everyone to join us in promoting awareness about suicide. On Friday, September 6, in honour of World Suicide Prevention Day, we hope to create a safe space for the community to come together to find resources, remember loved ones, or support others who have been touched by suicide. We will meet in the Cultural Room of the A.R. McDiarmid Civic Complex, 638 Princess Avenue, from 11:30 am- 1:00 pm SPIN has some light snacks and activities structured around having difficult conversations and Instilling hope and wellness in the community. During this event, SPIN will also present special recognition awards to those nominated for making a difference in our community by actively advocating for suicide prevention and life promotion.
SPIN Is also hosting a FREE 3-hour safeTALK training – Monday, September 9, from 5 pm – 8 pm at the Elspeth Reid Family Resource Centre. This educational opportunity will help you to be ready to reach out to someone thinking about suicide, overcome attitudes that act as barriers to help, talk openly about suicide and identify and connect people to resources in your area. SPACE is limited; register by emailing [email protected]
Candlelight Vigil – On Friday, September 6th, Westman Mental Wellness and Suicide Prevention Association is hosting a gathering at the Brandon University Garden on 18th Street in front of the Clark Hall Building at 7:30 pm. They will be giving out candles, and collecting names in memorial (optional to provide). The group will then walk to Stanley Park (8:00 pm) for a reading of names and a moment of silence to be held at the park. Candles for this event will also be made available at the SPIN event earlier in the day.
Events happening in some PMH rural and northern communities:
Chalk the Walk– happening in Ste. Rose, Swan River, Roblin, and Dauphin. Community members or businesses interested in participating can pick chalk up from their local HERO Club or Community Health office in Swan River, Roblin and Dauphin, and the Community Health office in Ste. Rose. Chalk the Walk does not have a set date and will run from September 4 to 11th in these communities.
Awareness Walks – happening on September 10 from 12-1 pm in Swan River & Dauphin.
If you are struggling or concerned about someone else’s suicidal thoughts, do not hesitate to reach out for help.
Contact the Manitoba Suicide Prevention and Support Line at 1-877-435-7170, a crisis line available 24 hours per day. A trained crisis worker will listen to you and direct you to the needed resources.
PMH Resources contact Westman Crisis Services at 204-725-4411 or 1-888-379-7699 in the Brandon Area or 1-866-332-3030 for PMH-North- Call 911 or contact a local hospital or health office.
NEW: 988-suicide crisis line available to all Canadians in English and French, 24 hours a day and seven days a week. It will offer trauma-informed and culturally appropriate services by trained crisis responders by phone or text.
Prairie Mountain Health- North Mental Wellness and Crisis Resources
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.
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.
Brandon Regional Health Centre announces the arrival of its New Year’s Baby
Brandon Regional Health Centre announces the arrival of its New Year’s Baby
Pictured is mom Ashley, new baby girl Eden and Ashley’s mom, Divona Pinder
The Brandon Regional Health Centre is pleased to announce the arrival of the 2024 New Year’s baby! Baby girl Eden was born at 11:53 am January 1, 2024. She weighed 7 pounds 4.6 oz and was 21 inches long. Proud parents are Ashley Blaylock and Simon Brock of Brandon. Eden was given a lovely gift basket with books, picture frames, stuffed animals and much more donated by the Brandon Regional Health Centre Gift Shop. Mom Ashley also received a beautiful bouquet from Carolyn’s Florist in Brandon. Prairie Mountain Health and the Brandon Regional Health Centre congratulate the family and their new daughter!
Parkland Rangers Hockey Fights Cancer Night another success
Members of the U18 AAA Parkland Rangers were on hand in three local communities December 14 to present proceeds from their ‘Hockey Fights Cancer Night’, which was held back on October 20 when the team played host to the U18 Brandon Wheat Kings. The annual recognition night raised a total of $4000 dollars, with a split of $1,338 presented to three Community Cancer Programs within the Prairie Mountain Health region. Cancer Care Units in Dauphin, Russell and Swan River were grateful to receive the contributions, which were primarily raised through game night donations, door prizes and a raffle draw.
Fuel Good Day – Birtle Gas Bar
Twin Valley Coop selected the Birtle Sunnyside Personal Care Home Activities Department as the recipient of their 2023 Fuel Good Day donations in September.
Accepting a donation of $700.00 is Kari Fouillard, Marketing & Community Relations Manager; Jenna Hohmann, Recreation Facilitator; Tracey Howe, Recreation Worker.
Grit Force Fitness Donates to Neepawa Chemo Unit
Grit Force Fitness donated $1000 to the Neepawa Chemo Unit from their Second Annual Breast Cancer Awareness Fundraiser Workout. Kristi Friesen Cancer Care Nurse from Neepawa accepted the donation from Sheri Hockins, owner Of Grit Force.
Stuffy Donation for Pediatric Unit
Devan Bradley is a dedicated volunteer at the Brandon Regional Health Centre, he volunteers his time in the surgical suite and visiting long-term patients. Devon brings a smile to patients’ faces regularly and has now extended these smiles to the pediatric unit. Devan raised 800 dollars in donations through his YouTube channel @Headupthrottledown, he used these donations to purchase stuffed animals for the pediatric unit. Volunteer Services and Prairie Mountain Health would like to thank Devan for his efforts and generous donation.
What You Can Do Heading into Respiratory Virus Season
What You Can Do Heading into Respiratory Virus Season
Respiratory viruses are common, and they tend to spread more easily during cooler weather when Manitobans spend more time indoors with others. Viruses including Influenza (Flu) and Covid are contagious, and can have similar and overlapping symptoms.
People who have a respiratory virus often feel some or all of these symptoms:
Fever or feeling feverish/chills
Cough
Sore throat
Runny or stuffy nose
Muscle or body aches
Headaches
Fatigue (tiredness)
Some may have vomiting and diarrhea (though more common in children)
Respiratory viruses can infect the nose, throat and lungs and cause mild to severe, and sometimes fatal illness. Most viruses are spread when people cough, sneeze or talk, and droplets land in the mouth or nose of nearby people. A person may also become infected by touching an object that has a virus on it and then touching their own mouth, nose or eyes. Young children, seniors, and people with certain health conditions are at a higher risk of respiratory illness complications.
The BEST ways to reduce your risk and potential complications:
Get vaccinated, stay home when sick, wash hands frequently, cover your cough/sneeze, and wear a mask in high-risk situations
This respiratory virus season, updated Covid and Flu vaccine doses are recommended for all Manitobans 6 months of age and older. It is especially important for individuals who are considered high risk, those over the age of 65, and children under 5 years of age.
Manitoba Health continues to offer Pneumococcal 23 and High-Dose (HD) Flu vaccines to people 65 years of age and older. Most adults over 65, without underlying health conditions, only require one lifetime dose of pneumococcal vaccine. The High Dose Flu vaccine contains more antigen that older adults need to build a strong immune response resulting in better protection against the Flu virus.
You can get your Flu, Covid and Pneumococcal vaccines at a local community clinic, pharmacy, or your Primary Care Provider. All vaccines can be given safely at the same visit. It is recommended to receive your Covid vaccine 6 months since your last dose. Talk to your health care provider to determine the best time for you to be vaccinated.
Prairie Mountain Health (PMH) Flu and Covid Vaccine Clinics will be starting October 23rd. For clinic dates and locations continue to check the PMH website and our Social Media pages (Facebook, Instagram, Twitter).
Once again, this year you will be able to book your vaccine appointment online or call toll free 1-844-626-8222.
August 31st is International Overdose Awareness Day. On this day, we take the time to remember those we have lost due to overdose/toxic drug poisoning and commit to ending the stigma around substance use. You can help end overdose. Free naloxone training and kits are available at select PMH sites and from the PMH Community Connections van. Prairie Mountain Health also offers RAAM clinics for those looking to get help with high-risk substance use. For more information about International Overdose Awareness Day, visit www.overdoseday.com. #EndOverdose #OverdoseAware #IOAD2022
Prairie Mountain Health Staff will be at events in the following communities on Wednesday, August 31 in support of International Overdose Awareness Day.
Safe – Make sure to wash hands and prep area before making lunches. Keep cold food cold – use an insulated lunch kit with an ice pack. Keep hot foods hot – an insulated food container can keep soups, stews, curries etc. hot and avoid line-ups for a microwave. For more food safety information go to Food Safety (bccdc.ca).
Ingredients – Include a variety of vegetables and fruit, whole grains and protein foods. This will provide the energy and nutrients children and youth need throughout the day to learn. Simple rule of thumb is to try to pack fruit and/or vegetables with each meal and snack. There are lots of options that can reflect taste, culture, and budget. See Canada’s Food Guide for great tips and recipes.
Major source of nutrients for the day – Many children and youth spend a large portion of their day at school; packing enough and a variety of food is key. They need essential vitamins and minerals to grow and develop. Their appetites will differ sometimes daily depending on their rate of growth, activity etc. Some days they will eat a lot and sometimes a little. Trust them to eat as much or as little as they need.
Plan and Prep – Help children love their lunch by including them in the process. Make putting a lunch together simple by having a variety of prepped and ready to pack vegetables, fruit, whole grains and protein foods. Go through the grocery flier with children/youth and let them pick out a few items they would like in their lunch. This makes them feel like part of the process and can increase their food skills, get them to try new foods, and decrease the amount of food that comes home uneaten.
Let children and youth eat their lunch in whatever order they want to – Help them accept that there are different ways of eating and there is no right or wrong way. Asking children to eat one food before another reinforces that there are 2 categories of foods; good/healthy and bad/unhealthy. Labelling food this way can lead to feelings of guilt and confusion. This can interfere with their relationship with food. Foods cannot be neatly categorized. What is healthy and normal for one person might be different for another.
Enjoy! – Lunches should be enjoyable, try to pack a well-liked food such as an energy ball, mini chocolate bar, favourite dip, or a muffin. See Zack enjoy making his lunch here Healthy school lunch – YouTube
