David Thompson Health Advisory Council is preparing to reach out to the public instead of waiting for people to come to the council.
About three presentations were made to the council, representing the Central zone of Alberta Health Services, in the past year. Topics have included long-term and seniors care, and rural health services and delivery.
“Councils are really new and I think communities still don’t realize that we’re here and we would love to hear from them if they have concerns on any topic,” said Diana Rowe, chair of the David Thompson Health Advisory Council.
In December, AHS announced it would strengthen the role of the 12 regional councils, which were developed to give the public an opportunity to provide input on health care in Alberta.
On Tuesday, council chairs participated in a teleconference call to discuss the future.
On Wednesday, Rowe said AHS board has made a commitment to respond to questions and concerns from councils faster and provide administrative support for council events or projects to connect with communities.
The board also sees a greater role for councils in higher-level strategic planning, she said.
“We’re the ones in the community and the board has realized the importance of including us and consulting with us.”
David Thompson Health Advisory Council plans to host an event before the end of March. A date and topic have not yet been determined.
Rowe said council believes there are several priority topics, but the council wants to limit the focus to one topic at the event.
The council’s next public meeting will be held on Feb. 28 at Red Deer Regional Hospital Centre, Room SC 3208, from 5 to 8:30 p.m.
But Rowe said people don’t have to wait to until a meeting to make their views known. They can call council members or submit something in writing.
For more information, go to www.albertahealthservices.ca.
szielinski@www.reddeeradvocate.com