July 13, 2011 - An Independent External Quality Assurance Investigation, conducted by Dr. Douglas C. Perry with findings submitted directly to the Stanton Territorial Health Authority, endorses the professional response of Stanton employees and recommends:

1. Consideration be given to establishing trained in-house special constables with legislated powers to restrain and assist in direct patient care.

2. Emergency Medical Services (EMS) personnel be reminded to encourage family member(s) to attend with patients at the Emergency Department, especially in cases involving potential mental health issues or other instances where communication may be compromised.

“Our priority is to provide the highest level of quality health care services for NWT residents,” Minister Miltenberger says. “We are appreciative and respectful of Dr. Perry’s recommendations and will take all necessary steps to ensure the excellent standard of care provided by the Stanton Hospital and its employees is protected and maintained.”

In April 2011, the Minister of Health and Social Services, J. Michael Miltenberger directed the Stanton Territorial Health Authority to conduct a review to cover all aspects of the November 2009 Allisdair Leishman incident. The Independent External Quality Assurance Investigation and recommendations of Dr Perry honours the request made in the Legislative Assembly. The Minister directed the review to make recommendations, as necessary, to improve safety and security for patients and staff at the Stanton Territorial Hospital – and to improve the overall quality of care for patients.

The Department of Health and Social Services is working with the Stanton Territorial Health Authority and the Department of Justice to assess cost and other requirements regarding the establishment of special constables.

The Department will also work with municipalities, governments and organizations operating ambulance service to ensure that EMS personnel encourage the patient’s family members to attend them at the Emergency Room.
In accordance to the NWT Evidence Act, and consistent with national practice, the report cannot be shared externally by the Stanton Territorial Health Authority.

On July 11, the Minister has met with family representatives to discuss the Independent External Quality Assurance Investigation recommendations and to reiterate the ongoing commitment the Department and Stanton have to provide an appropriate level of care now and in the future.

For more information, contact:

Damien Healy
Manager Communications Health and Social Services
Government of the Northwest Territories
Tel: (867) 920-8927
damien_healy@gov.nt.ca

James MacKenzie
Media Liaison
Office of the Premier and Executive Council
Government of the Northwest Territories
Tel: (867) 669-2302