PRINCE ALBERT — The Government of Saskatchewan has signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Big River First Nation (BRFN) and Montreal Lake Cree Nation (MLCN) to advance the development of a new Urgent Care Centre (UCC) in Prince Albert.
According to a SaskBuilds and Procurement press release, this UCC will offer residents of Prince Albert and the northern part of our province an alternative to emergency departments for illnesses and urgent injuries that are not life-threatening, as well as mental health supports.
"This is a milestone for our Nation — we are proud to partner in building better health care in Prince Albert and advancing BRFN EDC’s economic sovereignty," Big River First Nation chief and Big River First Nation’s Economic Development Corporation president Jonathan Bear said.
"Owning the land and facility secures lasting benefits for our people while supporting the province’s Patients First program — a true win-win. We are honoured by this partnership and excited for the innovation and lasting benefits it will bring."
Under the MOU, the government and BRFN and MLCN will collaborate on the next steps for the delivery of the UCC in Prince Albert.
"Through collaboration with Big River First Nation and Montreal Lake Cree Nation, this agreement is an important milestone in the planning and development process," SaskBuilds and Procurement Minister Sean Wilson said.
The MOU is a first step in establishing the partnership. As the project planning progresses, subsequent partnership agreements may be negotiated between government, BRFN and MLCN.
"This initiative is about improving access to care and creating better outcomes for people throughout the Prince Albert region, particularly in the areas of mental health and addictions,” Montreal Lake Cree Nation Chief Joyce McLeod said.
“Montreal Lake Cree Nation is proud to be a partner in a project that will bring essential health care services closer to our communities while creating long-term economic opportunities for our Nation. By working together, we are building a stronger, healthier future and ensuring that individuals and families have access to the support they need, when they need it most.”
When complete, the UCC will provide enhanced access for residents of Prince Albert and the northern part of our province to quality patient care for an illness or injury that requires urgent attention, the release states. The centre will offer treatment for minor illness, injuries, mental health and addiction supports, that are non-life-threatening but typically require urgent same day treatment.
