The Northwestern Health Unit says it could be at least two years before it’s able to clear a backlog in public health services.
The pandemic has led to almost 100 per cent attention of all staff.
Medical Officer of Health Dr. Medical Dr. Kit Young Hoon says that resulted in many health programs functioning at reduced capacity or not at all.
“There are a number of clinical services such as speech language services, psychological services, small drinking water systems, and safety training are the key ones that we’ve measured, and that will, of course, require a significant amount of energy and time,” says Dr. Young Hoon.
Dr. Young Hoon is hoping to begin addressing the backlog this spring.
Staffing issues could hinder their ability to catch up.
“Staffing is difficult. Recruiting is difficult. Retaining is difficult. That is our main barrier. We are sharing this information provincially, so they’re aware that we need assistance with funding, but also a certain type of funding in order to recruit a new team.”
