Throughout the majority of February residents of the Leader and District Integrated Healthcare Facility have been wondering when the facility would be operational once again.  

25 residents were relocated at the beginning of February after a sprinkler line break in the old section of the building caused damage throughout the facility.

According to Lisa Thomson, Media Relations Consultant with the Saskatchewan Health Authority, repairs on the facility are complete and initial air quality checks have passed but further air quality testing needs to be completed. 

"The air quality testing is being completed to ensure that the environment is safe for our residents, staff and the public to return to. In situations where water is involved, it is a typical process to monitor air quality as it may have been affected by moisture and humidity increases, which in turn can enable growth of molds that can themselves potentially affect respiratory function, particularly in prone individuals.

With safety in mind, we are completing one more round of air quality testing throughout the facility to provide confirmation that the air quality environment is where it needs to be. This confirmation is important when considering individuals who are experiencing reduced respiratory function. We are expecting the results of the testing to be available at the end of this week."

Thomson also explained the process they have taken with residents this past month.

"Regular communication with residents and their families indicate that all residents impacted are safe, healthy and well-cared for. We appreciate that residents are also feeling homesick and we are committed to ensuring their safe return as soon as possible.

Primary Health Care services continue at neighbouring communities this week and will be evaluated at week’s end. Ambulance services continue to be available in Leader. Residents are reminded that in an emergency, please dial 9-1-1.

The Saskatchewan Health Authority wishes to thank all residents and their families, staff, physicians and the community of Leader and surrounding area for their continued patience and understanding."

West Central Online will update with the latest information when it becomes available.

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