Published in the Canstar Metro and Headliner September 2021
By Honourable Myrna Driedger
COVID-19 has changes our lives completely. Since this pandemic began, we have been following the progress of this virus closely. Thank you to everyone continuing to follow all Manitoba public health orders. It’s been a challenging time for so many people as we navigate this uncharted path. Remember to take care of your mental health. Reach out for help if you’re struggling, and know that it’s okay to not be okay.
The vaccine roll out has enabled so many of us to get our COVID-19 vaccines. It’s crucial that for anyone who is hesitant on the vaccine to talk with your doctor about the many benefits of this important vaccine. The vaccine is the key to ending these tremendously challenging times. When researching information about the vaccines, always look for reliable sources. Scientists, researchers, and medical professionals have years of experience understanding emerging medical advancements. Social media is not a place to gain a strong understanding of these important matters.
As a former nurse, I have been inspired by our healthcare workers and how they’ve risen to the challenges of these many difficult months. As always, our healthcare heroes have handled these times with grace, professionalism, and strength. Thank you all so very much.
Our healthcare system consists of many different pieces. Together these pieces weave a fabric of resources that we can all rely on when in need. One of these important pieces is our Health Access Centres. Health Access Centres offer many health and social services in our communities. The services offered vary from location to location in order to meet the unique needs of each community. Services include front line health care practitioners like doctors and nurses, employment and income assistance programs, home care, and mental health assistance programs.
There are seven Health Access Centres located throughout Winnipeg.
ACCESS Downtown at 640 Main Street
ACCESS River East at 975 Henderson Highway
ACCESS Transcona at 845 Regent Ave West
ACCESS Fort Garry at 135 Plaza Drive
ACCESS St. Boniface at 170 Goulet Street
ACCESS Winnipeg West at 280 Booth Drive
ACCESS NorWest at 785 Keewatin Street
The services offered at each of these centres align with the needs in the community. To learn more about Health Access Centres, check out the Winnipeg Regional Health Authority website at https://wrha.mb.ca/
Please continue to follow all public health orders as we navigate the path forward!