NEW HOSPITAL OPENS IN BIG RIVER

Released on May 15, 2000

Residents of Big River have a brand new hospital to serve their health needs.



The Parkland Health District, the Town of Big River and surrounding RMs hosted

a grand opening ceremony today for the new Big River Health Care Centre.

Energy and Mines Minister Eldon Lautermilch attended on behalf of Health

Minister Pat Atkinson.



The 10-bed facility is an addition to the town's nursing home. It will offer a

wealth of services to meet a wide range of local health care needs. For

example:



Acute care;

A two bay trauma room for emergency treatment;

Lab and x-ray services;

Physicians clinic;

Public health services;

Home care and other community services; and

Space for visiting health professionals.



The new addition replaces the former Big River Hospital and integrates all the

community's health services under one roof.



"Staff of the Parkland health district and community members have worked very

hard on this project and showed their commitment to enhancing health care for

their fellow residents," Lautermilch said. "I believe today's grand opening

also signals our government's ongoing commitment to strong, stable health

services in rural Saskatchewan."



The government committed more than $1.9 million to the $3 million project. The

remaining costs were covered by local fundraising.



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For more information, contact:



Jeff Brown

Saskatchewan Health

Regina, Phone: (306) 787-4088