Families in the Elk Valley will benefit from an increase in funding to strengthen public access to emergency services in rural communities. The Elk Valley Hospital will be receiving $200,000, it was announced Feb. 7.

This funding will ensure reliable public access to emergency services is maintained at local hospitals.

Funds will be used to purchase health authority-approved equipment, provide incentive for working weekends, holidays or night shifts, and hire additional physicians.

Physicians will work with their regional health authority to develop community-specific plans.

This announcement supports the B.C. government’s commitment to ensure the provision of health services in rural communities is looked at through a rural lens.

“This investment in the Elk Valley Hospital is a clear sign our government is taking the necessary action to ensure the long-term health and safety of families in our area,” stated Kootenay East MLA Bill Bennett in a press release.

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