South Eastman’s Community Health Assessment (CHA) 2008/09 reports are now available online.
“The CHA is important evidence which guides our long-term health planning,” says Monique Vielfaure Mackenzie, Chief Executive Officer for South Eastman Health.
“It paints a picture about the health of our population, and tells us the leading health issues from the community’s perspective.”
The new report highlights that south eastman is the fastest growing area in the province – 25% increase in the past decade compared to 5% for Manitoba. Substantial growth increases have occurred across all age groups and areas of the region. Immigration and high birth rates are the drivers of this growth, with recent immigration now accounting for nearly 10% of the overall population.
The good news is that health status for south eastman residents continues to be among the best in Manitoba. Life expectancy for both men and women is above average for Manitoba. However, good health is by no means shared equally across the region.
Major health burdens are chronic physical illnesses (e.g. diabetes, cancer) and mental health illnesses (e.g. anxiety, mood disorders). It is clear from the full range of consultations that primary (basic, local) health services are the leading issue for all south eastman communities.
CHA reports are updated every five years across Regional Health Authorities in Manitoba. This is the third CHA report created for South Eastman Health, led by Dr. Jan Roberts Medical Officer of Health for southeastern Manitoba. For more information please contact Ms. Ales Morga, CHA Coordinator, at (204) 346-6357.
To continue to participate in health-related discussions in south eastman, individuals can join their local District Health Advisory Council by contacting (204) 424-2326.
