Optometry Strike

We received notice recently that Manitoba’s optometrists are in a dispute with the provincial government over their contract, which expired in 2019. While physicians are not allowed to withdraw essential services over a contract dispute, optometrists can and they are. We understand they are now withholding certain services, including care to patients presenting with urgent matters or less than three weeks after eye surgery. 

This job action is already having an impact on patients, and physicians. We are hearing from ophthalmologists and from rural ER physicians seeing an increase in patient presentations because of the lack of access to optometrists. We continue to monitor this closely. 

We would like to hear from you if you are seeing an impact on your work. Please contact us at practiceadvice@​doctorsmanitoba.​ca.

Selkirk Hip and Knee referrals

Selkirk Regional Health Centre has officially launched its hip and knee joint replacement program, with the goal of working up to 800 surgeries per year.⁠ 

Physicians are asked to continue sending patient referrals to provincial central intake. From there, patients are assigned to a surgeon, who will determine, together with the patient, the best location for surgery. Individuals on the surgical wait list who live in Interlake-Eastern may be prioritized for surgeries in Selkirk if that is the surgeon’s preference and if patients are in agreement. 

Advanced Care Paramedics Coming to Rural Manitoba

The Manitoba government announced 14 ACP clinical leaders will be station in seven rural and northern communities, including Portage la Prairie, Flin Flon, Dauphin, Ashern, Neepawa, Swan River and Lac du Bonnet. They will respond to medical emergencies in rapid response vehicles; they do not transport patients but their advanced training and skills provide more definitive pre-hospital care on the scene. ACPs have been used for many years in Winnipeg. Read more here.

Melita gets more staff, but no doctors…

The Manitoba government announced additional primary care staff for the community of Melita this week, including an additional nurse practitioner, nurse, and mental health and addictions community support worker. This will help to extend hours at the Melita Health Centre for primary care, while the ER continues to be closed. Read more here.

Nurse Attacked at Grace

On March 26, a nurse at the Grace ER was assaulted. Hospital staff fast-tracked the assailant’s care to limit the amount of time the patient would spend in the facility. Get the full story. 

We are distressed to hear about more violence in a health facility, which should be a safe space for patients and providers. We continue to monitor safety in health facilities closely.