The reeve of the RM of Grahamdale says Interlake-Eastern Regional Health Authority's mobile clinic will greatly improve rural health care. Clifford Halaburda's comments come after the RHA's Mobile Clinic made it's first stop in Gypsumville last week, as part of the expanded mobile clinic program. He took the opportunity to stop by the clinic, and those on site indicated the clinic seemed popular with those in the area.

"It was well attended. I was talking to the supervisor of the unit, and he said there were between 30 and 35 people coming to visit the mobile clinic. That's great for this area. There could have been more, but it's the first time around and the people don't really find all this out. Everything takes time."

The mobile clinics are staffed by a driver, nurse practitioner, and registered nurse who can provide a number of services. Regular check-ups, condition management, education, and some lab services are all available on site. Halaburda says this will mean good things for their region, but says their distance from other communities can still create a challenge.

"If there are any health problems you have, if you're diabetic, or need your blood pressure checked, it can be done right there. If you're sick with a cold or something minor, the nurse practitioner can give you a prescriptions and you can go and get your medication. There's no medication in the town of Gypsumville. The nearest one is Ashern, so you still need to go 75 kilometres for your medication."

He says the residents who had attended the first clinic stop were pleased with the introduction of the mobile clinic. The mobile clinic stops in Gypsumville every Wednesday from 11:15 am to 3 pm.