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Nicholls Welcomes Provincial Support for Leamington OB Unit
February 26, 2016
Leamington – Chatham-Kent-Essex MPP Rick Nicholls is pleased that the province has approved additional funding to keep Leamington’s OB unit open and staffed.
“Birthing services are incredibly important and I’m relieved to say that Leamington will not lose this important service,” Nicholls said.
The Ministry of Health and Long-term Care recently committed $1.3-million annually to hire and retain three new OB/GYNs at the hospital.
The MPP acknowledged the tremendous work of Leamington District Memorial Hospital officials, Leamington Mayor John Paterson and concerned citizens who came together to support their hospital.
“I’m proud to represent communities that are so passionate about their health care. When I bring these matters to the Minister of Health’s attention, he knows that there is a community behind me. Our collective voice has been heard,” Nicholls stated.
Nicholls challenged the Health Minister last month regarding a financial shortfall in the province’s commitment to the unit, saying that additional funding was needed immediately for new OB/GYNs as the hospital’s only one was set to leave for Windsor in May.
“What action will the minister take to ensure birthing services stay in Leamington?” Nicholls asked.
In response, Minister of Health and Long-term Care Eric Hoskins pointed to the ongoing efforts of MPP Nicholls as well as countless members of the community who have made sure the Ministry paid close attention to this issue.
“This has been an absolute priority for both of us, to make sure that obstetrics is maintained,” Hoskins stated. “We will be going ahead to ensure that those guarantees necessary to be able to attract obstetricians to Leamington hospital do occur.”
