Home / Health / Winnipeg ERs Get Social Work Boost
Winnipeg ERs Get Social Work Boost
18 Jun
Summary
- Eight new social worker positions added to four hospitals.
- Annual cost for new positions totals $1.2 million.
- Goal is to reduce ER wait times and hospital stays.
Manitoba is increasing support for individuals seeking mental health and social services in Winnipeg's emergency departments. The provincial government is funding eight new social worker positions across four emergency and urgent care centers. This significant investment of $1.2 million per year aims to provide individuals with more comprehensive assistance during critical moments.
These new social workers will be distributed at St. Boniface, Victoria, Seven Oaks, and Concordia hospitals, with two positions allocated to each facility. Health officials state that connecting patients with timely resources is crucial for alleviating emergency room wait times and decreasing prolonged hospital admissions. Currently, only Health Sciences Centre offers 24/7 social worker services in its ER.
