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Internet E-mail or write to: 978-2nd Street East,
Prince Albert,
Saskatchewan S6V 0G4
Canada
Co-operative Health Centre
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When the movement for Medicare began in Saskatchewan it was bitterly opposed. In June of 1962, Dr. O.K. Hjertaas was the only doctor providing full medical services from the newly formed P. A. Services Co-operative, later the Co-operative Health Centre in Prince Albert and Canwood.
As in other co-operatives, members participate in the decision making process while qualified professionals carry out daily operations. Members make decisions about their health needs, funding, programs and services, and non members can use all the services.
In 1964, the new Health Centre was built at its present location, enlarged in 1967 and again in 1979. Today the Centre has over 3,700 members. There are 11 General Practitioners, 3 Specialists and 60 full time staff who provide services to more than 12,000 patients. Financing includes provincial funding which is supplemented by contracting out services and also by fund raising carried out by C.H.S. volunteers. The services and programs available at the P. A. Co-operative Health Centre are based on the everything in one place concept. The Centre provides medical services in general practice, surgery, internal medicine, dentistry, orthopedic surgery, urology and radiology. Nursing Services provide advice, information, education, counselling and direct nursing care. Tests including ECG testing are provided by the laboratory while x-rays and ultrasound procedures are carried out by Diagnostic Imaging. Physical therapy and Acupuncture are available in the Therapies Department. Day surgery, endoscopes, casts and other procedures are performed in Minor Surgery and a walk-in evening clinic operates out of this department each week-day evening from 5:30 to 8:00 p.m. General nutrition counselling and special diets are provided by a Dietitian.
The Centre's Counselling Department works closely with other community organizations to provide counselling, self-help and support programs. At home nursing services and palliative care are provided by Registered Nurses. A pharmacy is operated by P.A. Co-op Assoc. on the main floor of the Centre. Aboriginal patients are provided with translation services, advocacy support, education and counselling through the Community Health Worker program. The ISKWEW program, fully funded by the Co-operative Health Centre, provides many support services for battered women. Health promotion and prevention programs include a variety of classes, workshops and support groups. Educational material is available from the Health Education Resource Room and Health Lines, quarterly newsletter, keeps members and patients informed of new programs and clinic activities.
The Co-operative Health Centre is a success. Its development from a simple medical clinic to a comprehensive health service provider was made possible by its holistic approach to health care, its multidisciplinary team and its commitment to the community. This strategy has been the Co-operative Health Centre’s key to success since it began in 1962, and will ensure its future as a leader in the health services industry.
Service Clubs and Associations:
