october 2005

Keewatin Yatthé Participates in Northern Health Strategy Sessions

KYRHA Board Sit With Elected Leaders As part of a regular accountability and communications process, the Keewatin Yatthé Regional Health Authority Board and senior management, met with a group of elected leaders in Beauval on October 07. This third quarterly meeting again showed that there are unique issues which require attention and support by both parties.

In a recent meeting of Northern health stakeholders in Meadow Lake, Keewatin Yatthé officials are feeling encouraged that the Northern Health Strategy is making significant strides especially as it pertains to the role the strategy plays in Northern Saskatchewan health care. Keewatin Yatthé Regional Health Authority CEO, Carol Gillis, feels confident that over the last six years the strategy has been in place, work has been done offering solutions to our partners many of which still have huge health challenges. “The Northern Health Strategy is intended to create an environment for our partners to seek solutions to the many common health challenges we cannot solve alone, “ say Gillis. “ I believe we are on the right track.” Northern health stakeholders discussed a wide range of issues including the evolving Aboriginal Health Blueprint initiated by the Prime Minister and Canada’s Aboriginal leaders in September of 2004. The group learned that the province is now in the early stages of drafting a paper that will be part of the First Ministers meeting with Aboriginal leaders later this year. Health leaders discussed options for future sustainability of the strategy. Staff of Shared Paths, a Northern Health Strategy project funded by the federal government under the Primary Health Care Transition Fund was present to answer questions. MLTC Grand Chief Richard Gladue provided a clear view on the importance of working together to help improve health care for northerners.

Project Hope “My plan, Project Hope, enlists a multitude of communities, health care services, law enforcement agencies and educational programs in a concerted and sustained effort to prevent substance abuse and to lessen its harms to individuals and families. It’s about treatment that is more accessible and flexible for those who need it; it’s about coordinating our efforts and improving our knowledge so that communities can get the best tools available to fight substance abuse on their streets and in their homes; it’s about making it more difficult to manufacture and sell drugs in our province; and finally, it’s about educating and equipping our young people and changing society’s attitudes so that substance abuse doesn’t get a chance to take hold in their lives.” Premier Lorne Calvert continue on page 2...

One of the more important topics of discussion was to strengthen the partnership with the region’s communities by hearing first hand advice about service delivery, receiving feedback on program initiatives, and response to strategic priorities. The Board proposed that it wished to continue to build this relationship by formalizing this group as a Community Advisory Network. Agreeable to such a process, the leaders noted that smaller communities must be urged to participate more. The leaders offered their support to Keewatin Yatthé Regional Authority to seek solutions, overcome issues, and encourage initiatives that will strengthen health services in the region. Health Authority administrative personnel agreed to make every effort to attend regional leadership organizations meetings.

The other messages heard by the Board were: increased need for mental health resources, community health offices and clinic facility replacement, dialysis accessibility, increased EMS training, regional human resource development through bursary and education financial support programs, and building capacity in communities not only in areas of crisis intervention by seeking and supporting community prevention projects. The Board updated the meeting on the construction progress of the new integrated health center in Ile a la Crosse and planning activities for proposed capital developments in Beauval, Buffalo Narrows, and Green Lake. A summary of activity of the Northern Health Strategy was shared. Leaders agreed that this was an important process to tackle common northern health issues.

Ile a La Crosse Continues with Fund Raising Mayor Max Morin of Ile a la Crosse has reported that the community has already raised $333,000 towards the community’s share in the cost of equipping the new health facility that is now under construction. “We should be able to deliver $250,000 by November 01 as expected.” Says Morin. “There has been a lot of energy spent by many people in this community and I am proud of these efforts.” The community is expected to raise about $800,000 towards equipment costs. Mayor Morin continues to encourage community members to take their own initiatives on fund raising opportunities. He suggests that the committee tasked to do this cannot be expected to be able to do all of the leading. Therefore he says if residents have an idea, “by all means, put it forward and act on it.” Last summer, Mayor Morin delivered a letter to the Prime Minister during his visit to Regina requesting the federal government to look at the exceptional conditions in which communities in the region must live with and he urged Ottawa to assist where possible. “Although Ottawa already allocates funding to the province for health services, as a small northern community with a struggling economy, our ability to reach fund-raising objectives is quite a challenge.” Says Mayor Morin. “I am not complaining, we’ll make every effort to reach our committment to the Health Authority, but I think its reasonable to make these considerations when such expectations are made of us.” Morin notes the community is already under pressure to offer additional professional health staff housing.

first installment of $250,000 Ile a la Crosse Mayor Max Morin hands a cheque in the amount of $250, 000 to Keewatin Yatthé Regional Health Authority CEO Carol Gillis. This money represents the first installment of the $800,000 the community has formally committed to the Health Region. The funds raised will assist the Health Region with the costs of equipment and furnishings for the health portion of the joint-use health/learning facility being constructed in Ile a la Crosse. The building is scheduled for substantial completion by July 2007. See The Multi Purpose Facility On the Web http://216.197.219.4/home/homeJ.html

La Loche Employees Receive Service Recognition...

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... Project Hope “Take resources, tailor utilization to the needs of the region in accordance to its community driven Mission and Philosophy and in alignment to broad Provincial health goals.” Elaine Malbeuf - Director of Community Services Driven by Premier Calvertʼs Project Hope funding, Keewatin Yatthé Regional Health Authority has framed how it will utilize new multi year allocation. Elaine Malbeuf, Director of Community Services for the Health Authority says; “We will adhere to our belief that communities must be involved in addictions treatment strategies. Drug addiction has many underlying issues.” Malbeuf adds that the Authority has always held the position that it could not solve health issues by itself. “Although we have a great addictions team in KY, when it comes to significant addictions issues, we must develop partnerships and program integration, because I believe that communities understand determinants of health.” Malbeuf says with this funding Keewatin Yatthé will assist in developing a Community Mobilization Treatment process. This includes the notion of building capacity across the region by establishing proactive Community Response Teams. “In the most part,” says Malbeuf, “answers are resident in the communities. At times these require support and acknowledgment. As a result, the Project Hope funding will provide us with the added opportunity to seek highly skilled individuals. ” One such position the Authority hopes to fill before winter sets in is one described as ʻʻcross trained in addictions and mental health”. This position will focus on youth. The other position will be for providing enhanced community coordination in prevention and education in addictions. By having such resources, the health authority will assist communities in coordinating their initiatives around addictions. Although there is high emphasis in community strength, it is also important to create an environment of a client-centered process says Malbeuf. The evolving acceptance of the principles of Primary Health Care and specifically the growing interest in Keewatin Yatthé in building health teams, will work towards improved overall care. In a recent meeting with regionʼs leaders the strategy was well received although there was an air of concern for the immediate need for support especially with the increasing level of suicides.

Funding to prevent

crystal methamphetamine abuse REGINA - Health Minister Ujjal Dosanjh visited the Regina campus of the Saskatchewan Indian Institute of Technologies (S.I.I.T.) today to announce federal funding for a program aimed at preventing crystal methamphetamine (meth) abuse in First Nations and Inuit communities across Canada. With federal funding of $851,000, S.I.I.T. will deliver the Prevention, Awareness, Community Education (P.A.C.E.) training program to 340 Aboriginal addictions and mental health workers from across the country. This 30-hour certification program will equip workers with specialized tools and information in an effort to prevent crystal meth abuse in their communities. It will also give them the skills to train others in this work. “This project will have a far-reaching effect,” said Minister Dosanjh. “By training these skilled and ex-

New Manager of Integrated Services St. Josephs Hospital

I am happy to announce Ron Diller has accepted the position of Manager of Integrated Services, St. Josephs Hospital - Ile a la Crosse effective October 17, 2005. As many of you already know, Ron has been employed with the Region since September 2001 as an Addictions Counsellor and most recently Coordinator of Addictions Recovery and Education Services. Ron’s strong organizational skills and his extensive background in administration will be an asset in this new position. As well, his already extensive knowledge of the Health Region including our mission and strategies are a great benefit. Welcome, Ron. Pat Malmgren, Director of Primary Health Services

Ron Diller

A Go in KYRHA The second Keewatin Yatthé Regional Health Authority sponsored Defeat Diabetes Conference will be held in Ile a la Crosse on November 2-3. The conference will discuss topics of importance to those living with the chronic disease as well as to reinforce aspects of treatment, nutrition, exercise and complications of diabetes. Sandra Clarke, a registered nurse and the region’s Diabetes Educator says she is excited to bring together a growing team of people who are responding very well to the reality of diabetes. “This conference provides an opportunity to build confidence in those that may need a bit of a hand in dealing with their disease, but it also enables service providers the opportunity to network and learn new things.” Clarke says last year the first conference was held in La Loche. “We’ve learned many things from last year’s conference that we will incorporate into the Ile a la Crosse gathering.” The one thing that stands out in Clarke’s mind from last year was the panel discussion. “A small group of three individuals were asked a set of prepared questions that helped to tie together the information previously presented throughout the conference and the impact on the daily lives of those living with diabetes.” Said Sandra. “There is no better resource than hearing from those that live with diabetes daily” Registrations are available at your local health office. Authority CEO Carol Gillis expresses her best wishes for another successful conference. She says bringing professionals and patients together strengthens the Authority’s ability to learn and serve based on an individual’s needs. perienced community workers in the prevention for national, regional and community initiatives of crystal meth abuse, we are strengthening our aimed at addressing substance abuse in Canada, response to this very serious health threat.” which includes $29 million under the Drug Strategy Community Initiatives Fund (DSCIF). Minister Dosanjh also announced that Health Canada has committed over $6.1 million over In addition to these recent investments, Health the next three years for Western Canada British Canada’s First Nations and Inuit Health Branch Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba (FNIHB) will continue to provide $12.8 million through the Community Initiatives Fund under in annual funding to Saskatchewan First Nations Canada’s Drug Strategy. for a range of addictions programs including the National Native Alcohol and Drug Abuse ProThis funding is for community-based initiatives gram, the National Youth Solvent Abuse Prothat address substance abuse and promote public gram, and the First Nations and Inuit Tobacco awareness of substance abuse issues. Communi- Control Strategy. ty groups across the four provinces will use this funding to implement a wide range of projects, a To begin to more effectively address Fetal Alconumber of which address methamphetamine use. hol Spectrum Disorder (FASD), FNIHB will also Some examples include: provide $1.13 million in annual funding to First Nations across Saskatchewan through the FASD $57,896 for a Saskatchewan-based project by the Program. Regina Treaty/Status Indian Services Inc to develop and promote the Crystal Meth Informationmethamphetamine al Video Project. As other projects are approved Ice Meth Speed across the provinces, they will be announced in the coming months. Chalk Glass This funding is part of Minister Dosanjh’s August 30, 2005 national announcement of Health Canada contributions over the next three years

Crystal

Fire

Crank

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Health Promotion

MONTHLY THEMES 2005 – 2006 August 2005

Elder Health

September 2005 FASD Day Sept 9th October 2005 November 2005 December 2005 January 2006 February 2006 March 2006 April 2006 May 2006 June 2006 July 2006

FASD Breastfeeding Addictions Awareness Injury Prevention Tobacco Awareness Active Living Month Nutrition Month Dental Health Month Mental Health Month Summer Safety Sexual Wellness

Health promotion Monthly Themes are a joint effort of the Northern Health Promotion Working Group with Health Promotion Staff from: Mamawetan Churchill River Regional Health Authority (306)425-4806 Keewatin Yatthé Regional Health Authority (306)833-5512 Prince Albert Grand Council (306) 953-7248 Battlefords Tribal Council

(306) 937-6700

Meadow Lake Tribal Council (306) 236-5817 Agency Chiefs Tribal Council (306) 883-3880 Ahtahkakoop Health Centre (306) 468-2747

Influenza Immunization It’s that time of year again… the beginning of influenza (flu) season. The flu is a virus that is very contagious and spreads from person to person by talking, sneezing or coughing. The virus infects the respiratory tract, which includes the nose, throat, windpipe and of course the lungs, leaving an infected person with symptoms such as fever, chills, congestion, cough, runny nose, muscle aches, breathing problems, and in some pneumonia. Because the flu is a virus, antibiotics do not properly treat it. Every year we fight a new strain of influenza, which means each year the flu is a bit different. It is for this reason that you can get the flu each and every year and need a new flu shot each year.

Who can get a free flu shot?

The flu shot is recommended for people at highest risk for severe complications from the flu. That means people who are 65 years of age and older (born in 1940 or earlier), of those under 65 who have a chronic illness such as: diabetes, cancer, lupus, heart disease, renal disease, an immunodeficiency, immunosuppression (including people who have had a transplant), or someone who has a chronic respiratory disorder including bronchopulmonary dysplasia or asthma severe enough to warrant regular medical follow-up or hospital care. This year the province of Saskatchewan is also expanding the program to include all children from 6 to 23 months of age as well as those with a spinal cord injury, seizure disorder (epilepsy), multiple sclerosis, muscular dystrophy, or cerebral palsy. Children 6-23 months old will need 2 doses of the vaccine given one month apart so it will take 2 clinic visitsJ

If I don’t qualify for a flu shot for free, can I buy one?

Crystal meth FAQs

CBC News Online | August 26, 2004

What is crystal meth? Crystal meth is one street form of the drug, methamphetamine hydrochloride, which comes in clear, chunky crystals, which are then inhaled or smoked. It is also called “ice,” “crystal,” “glass” and “tina.” Crystal meth can be easy to produce in small, clandestine labs, sometimes in a kitchen or bathroom, by mixing a cocktail of about 15 substances, mostly pseudoephedrine (a cold remedy), red phosphorous and iodine, but also including ammonia, paint thinner, ether, Drano and the lithium from batteries. Police say an investment of about $150 can yield up to $10,000 worth of the drug. But the resulting drug is often impure and the manufacturing process can be dangerous and cause fires. Crystal meth has become the most widespread and popular form of the drug, largely because it is so easy to make that anyone can set up a lab (instructions are widespread on the World Wide Web), but also because motorcycle gangs, which are becoming dominant in organized drug trafficking, usually sell the drug.

In October the flu shots will only be given to ‘high risk’ people but flu shots may be available for sale in November. The cost of a flu shot is $15.00, which must be paid at the time of the immunization.

Can you get the flu from the flu shot?

The influenza vaccine is made from ‘inactivated’ influenza viruses (3 of them) so there is no way they can grow in your body and ‘give’ you the flu. The flu shot also cannot kill any flu germs already in your body on the day of your immunization. If you already have the flu germ in your body, you may develop symptoms to the flu a few days later…if this happens some people will say it was from their flu shot when in fact it was not! After your flu shot you may have some side effects such as a sore arm, redness or swelling at the site of the needle, or mild fever – all of these are much more mild than the flu itself J

Can an addict recover? Experts say that crystal meth is one of the most addictive street drugs and one of the hardest to treat. Addiction counsellors say the relapse rate of 92 per cent is worse than cocaine. The withdrawal symptoms, especially the depression and physical agony, are reported by addiction counsellors to be worse than heroin or cocaine, and often addicts will drop out of recovery programs. This situation is worse in the United States than in Canada because patients in the U.S. usually have

Where can I get a flu shot?

The Public Health Nurse in your community has scheduled influenza clinics for high-risk clients and 6-23 month olds in various communities. Please look below at when the nurse will be available in your area: Green Lake (832-6257): High Risk Client November 1

from 10am to 3pm

6-23 month olds Nov 1

from 10am to 3pm

Beauval (288-4800) Toll free 1-866-848-8022 High Risk Clients October 31

from 10am to 4pm

6-23 month olds October 25 & 26 October 31 from

from 9am to 4pm 10am to 4pm

Cole Bay (contact the nurse in Beauval at 288-4800) Toll free 1-866-848-8022 High Risk Clients & 6-23 month olds October 27 from 10am to 3pm Ile a-la Crosse (833-5500) Toll free 1-866-848-8022 High Risk Clients October 28 6-23 month olds October 28

from 9am to 4pm from 9am to 4pm

St Georges Hill & Michel Village (contact the Ile-X nurse at 833-5500) Toll free 1-866-848-8022 High Risk Clients & 6-23 month olds October 31 from 10am to 3pm Buffalo Narrows (235-5800) Toll free 1-866-848-8022 High Risk Clients November 1

from 10am to 3pm

6-23 month olds November 1

from 10am to 3pm

La Loche (822-3210) Toll Free 1-888-688-7087 High Risk Clients October 24

from 10am to 12

6-23 month olds October 24

from 1 to 4pm

inadequate health insurance or none at all. Those American patients in managed care programs are often cut off before treatment is complete. In Canada, however, provincial health insurance and government recovery programs can help the addict recover. With increasing use of the drug, there are strong indications that users suffer brain damage, including memory impairment and an increasing inability to grasp abstract thoughts. Those who do manage to recover from addiction and retain memory and the ability to function in society are usually subject to some memory gaps and extreme mood swings.

La Loche Employees Receive Service Recognition On October 06, in a low key but well-attended ceremony in the La Loche Health Center the Board and Management honored many of the community’s health providers with service recognition awards ranging from five to thirty years. Twenty-four employees were presented with framed plaques as an expression of appreciation for years of service. Dr. Vaughan Nicholls who has been in the region since 1986 was honored for his sixteen years of commitment to the people of La Loche. Jan McMillen, a Nurse Practitioner in the La Loche Medical Clinic was given recognition for her thirty years of practice in the region. In her remarks to the employees KYRHA Board Chair said; “On behalf of the Board of Keewatin Yatthe Regional Health Authority, I am very proud to be here this afternoon to be a participant in recognizing many of you who have been in health service for a good many years. I can say from personal experience that the people of this region have so many things to be proud of and should not take a back seat to anyone. To prove this point, one needs only to look at the accomplishments and how your efforts enabled this facility to be built. Add to that the many years of service by this staff, that makes for a great health team. Several of you were born and raised in this community and this region. This makes it even special because it shows me as a resident and user of health services, that as northerners we really can make positive and healthy changes in the lives of people and their families. I was not part of the original board when the region first took responsibility for health services in 1998. But I now have the good fortune to serve as Chair of our Board and to learn from so many of you the numerous aspects of health services. There are many categories of professionals ranging from very committed managers to dedicated front line workers. There are receptionists, maintenance people, and other support personnel. It takes a large team to create great health services. This afternoon we take some time to recognize you for the fine work you have done. I express my heartfelt appreciation and wishes to many more years of health for you and your families. Thanks to those of you that have made this event possible. Congratulations and God Bless.” Carol Gillis CEO said; “As staff we often feel the direct result of success and the stress of the careers we have chosen. And perhaps far too often we do not take the time to ponder on the great work health providers do. For the people we take great effort to serve, for our patients to whom we provide comfort and support, for your own well-being, and the health for your families, we must at every opportunity take a moment to reflect on the experience of being helpers and providers. It was not too long ago it seems that our leaders and our people took the responsibility of health service delivery for this region. And when one thinks about it, you, the front line workers, are the face of the health region. It is you that our residents form their perceptions and opinions of who and what we are. By developing programming and service delivery that is reflective of the unique cultural and geographical environment of Keewatin Yatthé, we have experienced successes in many areas. This success and progress was very much dependent on the commitment and work which you as staff have given. And for this, on behalf of the other staff who could not be here today, and on behalf of those we have served so well, we express our token of appreciation for a job well done. I wish also to thank those staff members that have committed themselves to make this ceremony possible. Keep up the good work.“

Bonfire 2005 A Resounding Success The inaugural Bonfire music festival, held during the Labour Day weekend in Beauval, Saskatchewan, will enter the books as a resounding success. An estimated 250 northern youth enjoyed the performances of a dozen up and coming bands, many of them playing to their largest audience to date. The day kicked off with the sound of the Northwest Boyz, one of three homegrown Beauval bands to perform during the festival. The bands No Kurfew from Beauval, Almost Legal from Sandy Bay and Ile a la Crosse’s Closed Session were all notable for having band members 13 years of age and under. Also of note was an appearance by Black Lake’s Broken Trust. The band traveled through the night from the Far North community to perform an accomplished set for the assembled crowd. Inclement weather was a worry for the organizers early in the evening as thunderclouds approached, but a quick move inside the nearby Beauval Arena kept the show sets running smoothly. The final three bands of the day, Beauval’s Lounge Act, Nosehare of Ile a la Crosse and the North Battleford family dynamo Feedback, played to an enthusiastic but slightly weary crowd as night fell. Ticket prices were also a concern, some saying that the twenty dollar gate fee was too steep. A northern youth entering the grounds early in the day had the last word, though. “20 bucks? For all these bands? That’s a DEAL!” The organizing committee wishes to extend their gratitude to the people of Beauval, who assisted with many aspects of the festival; the community of Ile a la Crosse for supporting the festival with security and other resources; the roster of volunteers; the Missinipi Youth Foundation for their financial support; and all other groups and individuals who through their time and effort assisted with bringing Bonfire 2005 to life. Kim Burnouf of the organizing committee summed up the feeling of the day, saying “I am pleased beyond words at how things turned out. In our own way we celebrated the Saskatchewan Centennial, the spirit and energy of youth, and the amazing talent of these emerging stage performers. It’s clear from the crowd in attendance and the supportive atmosphere that we’ll do this again next year. The Bonfire is now lit. The flame will not be extinguished.”

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KY Awards Bursaries Annual Report Keewatin Yatthé Regional Health Authority has recently offered ten $3000 bursaries to ten health students for a total amount of $30,000. KYRHA Director of Human Resources Lloyd Bullock revealed his enthusiasm when he identified that since the inception of Keewatin Yatthé in 1998, it has no doubt influenced many young people to seek health careers. “I am happy to say that there are many local bright young people that have taken upon themselves to recognize career needs in the area and many have chosen nursing,” says Bullock. “Of the ten bursaries the RHA offered this year, eight of them are for nursing.” Following are this year’s recipients. Kayla Hansen Medical Laboratory Technician (year 1) Timothy Chartier Nursing Education Program (year 1) Lana MacDonald Nursing Education Program (year 2) Krissie Hansen Nursing Education Program (year 2) Sherry Clarke Nursing Education Program (year 3rd & 4th) Deanna Larson Nursing Education Program (year 2) Christina Morin Nursing Education Program (year 1) Samantha Caisse Nursing Education Program (year 3) Darren Gardiner Pharmacology (year 2) Jillian Bouvier BSc in Psychiatric Nursing (year 1)

Keewatin Yatthé Releases Annual Report To Minister of Health In recent weeks the Chair of Keewatin Yatthé Regional Health Authority submitted their 2004-05 annual report to the Minister of Health. The report identifies the RHA’s activities in the past year in services delivery, health status, health determinants, strategic accomplishments, identification of public accountability, and audited financial statements. Here for example is a demonstration of understanding the socioeconomic conditions in the region which nay have a direct impact on the health status of the residents. Here is a small example of some of the information contained in the document. » The covered population of KYHR grew 14.9% from 1994 (9,953) to 2004 (11,434). » By comparison the Saskatchewan population grew 0.4 % in the same period. » 94.5 % of the KYHR population are Aboriginal, compared to 13.5% in Saskatchewan (Census 2001) » An Aboriginal language was spoken in the homes of 50.7% of northern people in 2001, up from 47.6% in 1996, compared to 3 % of Saskatchewan people, up from 2.5% in 1996. » 32% of the covered population in KYHR, compared to 20% in Saskatchewan, are under the age of 15 » Approximately 35% of the population lives in First Nations communities and 65% live in off reserve communities. Almost 50 % of the population are Métis (Census 2001) » The employment rate in KYHR was 37.2%, compared to 63.5% in Saskatchewan, 2001. » In KYHR, 47.3% of children, compared to 19.2% in Saskatchewan, are in low-income families. (2001 Census) » Crowded housing contributes to transmission of communicable diseases. The average number of people per room decreased between the 1996 and 2001 Census years, but still remains nearly double the average for all of Saskatchewan.

The regional details, its major initiatives and accomplishments. These include: Northern Health Strategy. KYRHA participated in the development and delivery of a $3.2 million proposal from the federal government to create Primary health care strategies in Chronic Disease, Mental Health and Addictions, Perinatal and Infant Health, and Oral Health. Recruitment and retention of health professional staff continues to challenge the region. One concern is to address issues associated with high levels of sick leave. To begin work in determining causes a Regional Coordinator of organizational Wellness was hired. The Authority as well continues to offer up to $30,000 in annual bursaries.

Darren Gardiner

The Health Region has applied to the Canadian Council on Health Services Accreditation seeking a Canadian national standard in health care certification. One significant initiative in this regard is to establish services evaluation. To receive a copy of the Annual Report please write to: Keewatin Yatthé Regional Health Authority P.O. Box 40, Buffalo Narrows, Sask SOM OJO Krissie Hansen

You can also read the report online at www.kyrha.ca

What is breast cancer?

Breast cancer occurs almost exclusively in women with less than 1% of cases in Canada occurring in men. Breast Cancer is more common in women over the age of 50 although it certainly does occur in younger women as well. When a mass, lump or thickening is found in the breast -- either by breast selfexamination (BSE), a clinical breast exam or mammography - it will be investigated to determine if it is benign or malignant. Are there different types of breast cancer? There are several types of breast cancer. The most common types are ductal and lobular, and each type can be either invasive or in situ. Less common forms of breast cancer include inflammatory, medullary, mucinous, papillary, squamous cell, cribriform, tubular and Paget’s Disease. After a diagnosis of cancer has been confirmed, the cancer is classified into a particular stage. The stage of the cancer helps determine what treatment is necessary and how effective this treatment may be in getting rid of the disease and prolonging life . The earlier the stage is at diagnosis, the better the prognosis. Risk factors in breast cancer We do not know yet the cause of breast cancer. The most common risk factors for breast cancer are being a woman and aging. However, research is augmenting our knowledge daily and some specific factors have been identified as potential risk factors. These include: » More than one first-degree relative (mother, sister) has had breast cancer » Mutations of the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes » Past history of breast cancer or previous breast biopsy » Early menstruation (before age 12) » Women who have had no children or their first child after age 30 » Alcohol consumption » While the impact of diet and weight is still being investigated, evidence suggests a high intake of dietary fat may be related to an increased incidence of breast cancer. There are many myths and misconceptions about potential risks and causes of breast cancer. You are advised to discuss these concerns with a health care professional. Women with a history of breast cancer in their family should consult their physician to discuss their risk factors. Genetic testing is now available in many hospitals across Canada.

Breastfeeding Breast milk is the best food you can offer your new baby. The Canadian Paediatric Society recommends exclusive breastfeeding for the first 6 months of life. At 6 months, your baby will be ready for other foods. You can continue to breastfeed until your child is two years of age and beyond. Since breast milk is naturally and uniquely produced—by each mother for her own baby—your baby is less easily exposed to foreign allergenic material. Breast milk also contains antibodies and other immune factors that help him prevent and fight off illness better. Breast milk has the right amount and quality of nutrients to suit your baby’s first food needs. It is also the easiest on her digestive system, so there’s less chance of constipation or diarrhea. Not long ago, many people in western countries like Canada believed that bottlefeeding was better than breastfeeding. Today, we know that breastfeeding offers your baby the best start. If you experience problems, don’t be surprised if some people encourage you to give up. But before you do, ask for help and support—it’s out there. For more information call your Public Health Office.

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What is Primary Health Care? The Federal government in its Health Canada web site describes Primary Health Care as such: Primary health care refers to an approach to health and a spectrum of services beyond the traditional health care system. It includes all services that play a part in health, such as income, housing, education, and environment. Primary care is the element within primary health care that focuses on health care services, including health promotion, illness and injury prevention, and the diagnosis and treatment of illness and injury. Primary health care serves a dual function in the health care system: direct provision of first-contact services (by providers such as family physicians, nurse practitioners, pharmacists, and telephone advice lines); and a coordination function to ensure continuity and ease of movement across the system, so that care remains integrated when Canadians require more specialized services (with specialists or in hospitals, for example). Responsiveness to community needs is a key element of primary health care. Therefore, the range and configuration of services may vary from one community to another: there is no “one size fits all” model. Similarly, there may be various governance and funding models. Primary health care services often include: » prevention and treatment of common diseases and injuries » basic emergency services » referrals to/coordination with other levels of care (such as hospitals and specialist care) » primary mental health care » palliative and end-of-life care » health promotion » healthy child development » primary maternity care » rehabilitation services

Primary Health Care a National Objective

One element in the 2003 First Ministers’ Accord on Health Care Renewal was Primary Health Care. The intent of the First Ministers was to ensure that all Canadians, wherever they lived, have access to appropriate health on a 24/7 basis. Saskatchewan’s Objective Saskatchewan in its 2002 document entitled The Saskatchewan Action Plan for Primary Health Care. Following is an excerpt form the document. “The Saskatchewan Action Plan for Primary Health Care is an integrated system of health services available on a 24 hour 7 day a week basis through Regional Health Authority managed networks and teams of health care providers. Implementation of the plan will be a gradual process. The goal will be to have networks and teams established in all regions with accessibility to 100% of the population by the end of 10 years.” The plan identifies Primary Health care as a system “based on a set of defined characteristics”. These characteristics are observed by a foundation of principles such as identification of populations that will and can be served within Regional Health Authorities; community participation; community development; partnerships with community organizations; and developing a process of human resource development to reflect the principles of Primary Health care. The document goes on to describe what services can be provided under the Primary Health Care process. While the provincial government will define ‘core services’, regional health authorities “will manage, operate and fund the primary care system”

Keewatin Yatthé and Primary Care Pat Malmgren Director of Health Services for KYRHA observed that the notion of primary health care is not a new one for northern health providers. She adds that it maybe due to a natural affinity of northerners to do things because they have to. “Therefore, our objective of establishing a nationally and provincially driven Primary Health Care initiative should be accepted rather well by our region.” She says. Recently Keewatin Yatthé Regional Health Authority sat down to analyze its Primary Health Care objectives and activities. The Authority is pleased to report that there has been significant movement to reflect the integrated principles under which they are expected to manage. Following is a summary: ∆ St. Joseph’s Hospital, in Ile a la Crosse, amalgamated in April 2005 with KYRHA since. This has created the potential of increasing integrated service provision as well as maximizing of human resources. A Manager of Integrated Services has been hired. ∆ A new Manager of Integrated Services for La Loche has been hired. ∆ Reorganization was done which resulted in the creation of a regional Director of Nursing position for the two hospitals, La Loche and Ile a la Crosse. ∆ A Primary Health Care Team Facilitator was hired and has been working with staff and creating teams throughout the Region. He started by working with front line staff and is now commencing with Primary Health Care teams in each of the health centers in the Region. ∆ The region is experiencing improvement in recruitment and retention of health professionals including physicians and nurses. ∆ Keewatin Yatthé has supported the training and development of Nursing Practioners. The La Loche health clinic will continue to offer Nurse Practitioners services. Ile a la Crosse will see such a position filled before winter. In other areas: Chronic Disease Management ∆ The Chronic Disease Collaborative is set to start in Ile a La Crosse in November. This is supported by the Health Quality Council. The Regional Team Facilitator will help guide the process. Population Health ∆ Participation in the Northern Healthy Communities Partnership and the Development of a regional plan for population health promotion and disease prevention. ∆ Northern Health Strategy (Shared Paths) ∆ Staff involvement in the following Technical Advisory Committee’s: » Mental Health and Addictions » Oral Health » Infant and Perinatal Health » Chronic Diseases » Health Information Management » Scope of Practice » Information Technology ∆ The KYRHA NHS Working Group has been formed to enhance communication both to and from the Region and the Northern Health Strategy. Enhanced Intersectoral Collaboration » Quarterly Leadership Meetings involving the region’s Municipal and First Nation leaders to seek out community involvement in the planning, delivery and evaluation of health services.

Shared Paths

Community Development Team On Board Community Development has always been an important part of the Northern Health Strategy. For this reason, it is also a key component of our Shared Paths for Northern Health project. At our June 6th meeting, the Northern Health Strategy Working Group (NHSWG) chose to offer a contract for Community Development support to the Associated Counseling Network. Starting this month, Associated Counseling Network will be working to develop strategies for Community Development in Northern Saskatchewan. This group has considerable experience with Northern Saskatchewan. They are highly familiar with the Northern Health Strategy, as they helped to develop our successful application to the Primary Health Care Transition Fund. They have proposed to complete the following four phases: 1. Concept Design and Evaluation Tool Development 2. Data Gathering 3. Model Development 4. Implementation Process

Gambling Therapists now in each Addiction Recovery and Education Offices

Ann Riemer Addictions, Counsellor in Buffalo Narrows, and Mark Romanow, Addictions Counsellor in Beauval, recently completed their Problem Gambling Therapists training in Saskatoon which is provided through Sask Health. They join Louis Roy Addictions Counsellor in Ile a la Crosse and Beatrice Piche in La Loche who both have this qualification. The additional certifications strengthens the Health Authorityʼs offering of counselling services to individuals, families and others who may be experiencing gambling issues or the effects of gambling. If you, a member of your family or someone close to you is experiencing gambling issues please give one of the therapists a call. Mark Romanow - Beauval 288-4808 1-866-848-8022 Ann Riemer - Buffalo Narrows 235-5846 1-888-848-8011 Louis Roy - Ile a la Crosse 833-5502 1-866-848-8299 Beatrice Piche - La Loche 822-3214 1-888-688-7087

8

No Matter What Happens

By UTA HARNISCHFEGER Wednesday, October 5, 2005 Posted at 8:47 AM EDT, Associated Press

I remember a time when each day was long, When the world was a playground and my life a song, And I fluttered through years with barely a care, Ignoring the future and what waited there.

Geneva — Nearly 400 million people will die from heart disease, diabetes and other chronic ailments over the next 10 years, but many of those deaths can be prevented by healthier lifestyles and inexpensive medication, the World Health Organization said Wednesday. The financial burden from an increasing death toll from such non-communicable diseases will also be enormous, costing countries such as China and India billions of dollars, WHO said in a report. “The lives of far too many people in the world are being blighted and cut short by chronic diseases,” WHO director-general Lee Jong-Woo said. He was citing the latest WHO report to draw attention to the increasing threat from diseases that can be prevented in part by healthier diets and giving up smoking.

Deadly diseases claim people I love, There are landfills below me, pollution above. I often think back to when life was a game. But no matter what happens, it can’t be the same. There are days when I just want to break down and howl, To give up completely, to throw in the towel, But I hold my head high and I push my way through. I have too much to give and so much to do And I make a vow that, though it’ll be hard, I’ll go on with a smile and play every card. I’ll give all I can, help others and love. No matter what happens, life will bloom again, And the strength I don’t have will come from above. So come, take my hand, and through darkness we will Sail If we all join together, we never can fail. We’ll remember to care, remember to feel, And no matter what happens, our world we will heal.

It was also the first to quantify the economic burden of treating such conditions in individual countries. China could spend $558-billion (U.S.) treating heart disease, strokes and diabetes over the next decade, the study said. Russia could spend $303-billion and India $236-billion. “This is a preventable epidemic,” said Robert Beaglehole, co-author of the study. “We know what to do, we know how to do it, preventions are very cheap.” The study urged developing countries to adopt prevention policies that have helped cut death rates in industrialized countries. Heart disease-related deaths have fallen up to 70 per cent in Canada, Australia, England and the United States in the past three decades, the report said. It also cited Poland, which reduced deaths among young adults by 10 per cent in the 1990s, in part by making fruit and vegetables more available and removing subsidies on dairy products such as butter.“There is no question that low-income countries can follow the example of industrialized countries,” Mr. Beaglehole said. “Most of their success stems from population-wide campaigns. For example, to reduce the intake of saturated fats, sugar and salt and to encourage activity.” The report also pointed to cheaper treatments. Medication to prevent complications from heart disease, for example, is no longer subject to patent restrictions and is cheaper to make.

Alison Mary Forbes Submitted by Barry Weber

Your Health Record....

Why We Need Your Information

We are required to record and maintain your personal health information,including your current condition, your care plan and care provided, and the results of all tests, procedures and therapies. Staff of KYRHA is committed to keeping your information confidential. We obtain information about you to: * Identify you * Understand your health care needs * Provide information regarding your health status if you are unable to communicate that information yourself * Comply with legal requirements * Evaluate and monitor services provided, and plan for the future We do not allow others such as police, lawyers, insurance companies, etc, to access your medical information unless we have your authorization to do so, or, we are required by law to provide such access. You will be asked for your consent if these or other groups request information. Please note however that the law requires or authorizes some information to be disclosed in certain circumstances. An example is the reporting of abuse of a child or certain communicable diseases. You may request to see you health record. In some cases, a health care provider will review your health record with you to explain information which may not be clear to you. To obtain a copy of your health information, a written request should be forwarded to the Health Record Department in the facility where you received service. We will respond to your request within thirty days. If you have questions about privacy of your health information or about your health record, please speak with the health care provider involved in your care or contact Keewatin Yatthé Regional Health Authority Quality Care Coordinator at 306 833 5507 or 1 866 848 8299

In our last issue we identified this young lady as Candice Petit.

Smokers’ Helpline

Her true name is Candice Waite.

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Please accept our apologies.

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But as I grow up, darkness starts to set in ; My bright world has turned into concrete and tin. I now see the violence I looked past before; My friends start to die and my heart hits the floor.

The projections were based on surveys conducted in countries that have already implemented measures to encourage healthier habits. Exercise and better diets can help prevent 80 per cent of premature cases of heart disease, strokes and diabetes, the report said. Although other studies have predicted the number of deaths from individual diseases, the WHO report was the first to project the toll from all major chronic conditions.

»»»» Kids Help Line «««« 1 800-668-6868

As a child, my biggest concern was just me; I had to be happy, I had to be free. And if I was content, I would not shed a tear, And no matter what happened, I still would be here.

Until recent years, these chronic conditions were overshadowed by infectious diseases, such as HIV/AIDS, even though they cause far more deaths than the infectious diseases. Chronic, or noncommunicable, diseases, account for three out of five deaths worldwide, the WHO says. The 128-page WHO report estimated that 39 million deaths from chronic diseases in the next 10 years can be prevented through healthier lifestyles and relatively cheap medication, including 28 million in developing countries.

(Or other Addictions Issues) (306) 235-5845 or 1-866-274-8506.

Little I knew of a world outside home, Where tragedy, sorrow and murder could roam. All I saw were blue skies, rainbows and stars. I looked past destruction of buildings and cars.

Crystal Meth Emergency Help Line

School was intriguing and filled with delights. I played away daytimes and dreamed away nights. My parents assured me I had nothing to fear, And that no matter what happened, they’d always be there.

The Smokers’ Helpline is a free, confidential telephone service you can call for easy access to a trained quit specialist. We can help you develop a structured “Quit Plan”, answer your questions about quitting and refer you to services in your community. We use the most up-to-date information and everything we provide is free to residents of Saskatchewan. Call our toll-free number today at 1 877 513-5333

Monday through Thursday 7:00 am - 7:00 pm Friday 7:00 am - 3:00 pm Saturday & Sunday 7:00 am - 3:00 pm

e-mail your stories or comments to [email protected] Box 40 Buffalo Narrows, Sask. S0M 0J0 Phone # 235 2220 Fax # 235 4604 www.kyrha.ca