Drowning deaths more common in the summer

By Justin Sibbet, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter A warm day on the water can quickly become a worst nightmare in mere seconds, but mere seconds may also prevent such a catastrophe. Next week is National Drowning Prevention Week, with July 25 being recognized as World Drowning Prevention Day. The World Health Organization’s (WHO) theme this year for World Drowning Prevention Day … Read more

Alberta’s general surgery is at a tipping point, with lives on the line: AMA

By Mia Parker, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter According to a July 8 Alberta Medical Association news conference, Alberta’s general surgeons are facing increasing human resources shortages, which are limiting their ability to provide urgent, life-saving care to patients. This news conference marked the start of the AMA’s general surgery information campaign, seeking to inform the public of the issues faced in … Read more

Albertans believe health care is in crisis, survey says

By Brett McKay, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter A survey of Canadians’ health care concerns reveals nearly three-quarters of Canadians think health care in their province is in a state of crisis, and the majority think governments aren’t doing enough to fix workforce shortages. The poll was commissioned by the Canadian Health Coalition ahead of the annual meeting of the 13 provincial … Read more

Blue-green algae bloom advisory issued for Clear Lake

By Rob VogtPeople who use Clear Lake, east of Stavely, are urged to be cautious, with a health advisory in effect for blue-green algae in the water.On July 12, Alberta Health Services announced blue-green algae (cyanobacteria) bloom has been identified in the waters of Clear Lake. Residents living near the shores of this lake, as well as visitors to these … Read more

Advance Care Planning: Make a plan in five steps

By Alberta Health ServicesThere are five main steps to advance care planning. For an overview of these five steps, read the following information.Step 1Think about your values and goalsWhen you start making your advance care plan, think about what’s important to you (your values) and what’s right for you (your preferences) when you answer the questions below.There are no wrong … Read more

Garden series speaker discusses benefits of hügelkultur

By Rob VogtHügelkultur, the use of raised beds, was one of the topics at the first night of a gardening information series at the Claresholm Social Centre Monday night.A total of 14 people attended the May 6 event, which featured a presentation by Steve Redmond, an agricultural consultant.He grew up on a farm in Ontario, and earned a degree in … Read more

Province investing in EMS systems

By Steffanie Costigan, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter The Alberta government announced on Thursday $35 million in funding over three years to assist with reducing emergency response times and support EMS workers.  “We will outline significant steps our government and partners are taking to enhance the emergency response capabilities and healthcare across Alberta, said Alberta Minister of Health Adriana LaGrange on Thursday … Read more