Dr. Richard Wedge, Director of Medical Programs for the Department of Health and Social Services, will be the senior government representative in the transition process, Minister Gillan said.

“Government is committed to ensuring that our investment in the communities and people of the Tyne Valley area are appropriate. Dr. Wedge will be a critical member of the team managing the transition process as we create a new delivery model for health services,” the minister explained.

The transition process will involve East Prince Health, the department, and other stakeholders in the community.

Cascumpec-Grand River MLA and Minister of Tourism Philip Brown is optimistic about the transition, but said that he will be watching the committee closely to make sure that it responds to the needs of the community.

“I have discussed this issue several times with both the Minister of Health and Social Services and the Premier, and I have made it very clear that I expect to see significant results during the transition,” Minister Brown said. “I am dedicated to making sure that Stewart Memorial Hospital continues to be an integral part of health services in the area,” he added.

Minister Gillan agreed. “We fully intend to keep the hospital open. It has been, and will continue to be, an important component in the health system in East Prince,” the minister said.

“We must ensure that the delivery of those services meet the needs of the community. I want all residents to participate in this transition. I think that, by working together, we can build a health services model that the people of Tyne Valley can be proud of not just now, but for many, many years to come.”

Dr. Wedge said that he is looking forward to participating in the transition process. “We will work very closely with East Prince Health, and we will make sure that all interested parties – area residents, the Friends of Stewart Memorial, and other stakeholders – share their vision of what the delivery of health services will be, and the role Stewart Memorial Hospital will play within that system,” he noted.

Further information regarding the transition process will be forthcoming in the near future.