Surgical Capacity
Several years ago, the Good Health Initiative, in association with the Pincher Creek Hospital and the Chinook Health Region administration, added new surgical resources to the Pincher Creek Hospital.As a result of that initiative, general surgery specialist Dr. Allen Trautman began coming from Lethbridge to Pincher Creek on a monthly basis to perform laparoscopic procedures and other surgical interventions.
Now, on a monthly basis, in addition to Dr. Trautman's visits. Dr. Stephen Kwan, Dr. Mark Fernhout and Dr. Lance Anderson come monthly to perform orthopaedic procedures. Dr. Michael Owen delivers mental health care. We also have tele-conference consults with rheumatoid arthritis specialists on a regular basis.
Through a variety of events, the local community's Windy Slopes Foundation has, and continues, to raise funds to purchase the necessary surgical equipment.
This initiative expands at-home surgical care for local residents, making it easier to attract and retain physicians and nurses, who work with the specialists. It eases wait lists at the Lethbridge Regional Hospital, and so uses the Chinook Health Region’s medical capacities in a more cost-effective and patient-friendly way.