August 2, 2011 - Stanton Territorial Hospital is targeting August 12, 2011 to resume elective surgeries. This target date is based on current sterilization equipment showing consistent safety results.

“Safety of patients is our priority,” said Minister of Health and Social Services J. Michael Miltenberger. “Only when Stanton Territorial Health Authority is satisfied that consistent results can be achieved, will we resume our normal business.”

Although some surgeries have been performed at Stanton, limits on elective surgeries have been in place since January 20, 2011. Demand for surgeries have been managed by either completing the surgery, accessing southern hospitals or, when possible, rescheduling.

Issues with infection control and sterilization equipment are a common occurrence in all hospitals. Patient safety and risk management will continue to be the priority for Stanton Territorial Hospital.

For more information, contact:

Damien Healy
Communications
Department of Health and Social Services
Tel: (867) 920-8927
Email: damien_healy@gov.nt.ca