Sault needs more resources to attract specialists: Krmpotich

NEWS RELEASE

NDP CANDIDATE JOE KRMPOTICH

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With another cardiologist leaving Sault Ste. Marie, NDP candidate Joe Krmpotich says the government has to stop underfunding and under-resourcing health and heart care in this community to help attract more specialists.

On May 12, local cardiologist Dr. Ismeil Amhalhal announced that he will be closing his East Street office and relocating to another city. This is yet another blow to Sault Ste. Marie's health care system, which already sends many patients to other cities for heart treatment and cardiac care.

That treatment includes patients that need the life-saving procedure percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI).

Sault physicians have asked the government for resources and permission to be able to perform the life-saving procedure locally, but the Wynne Liberals have yet to act.

"Without access to the same resources as other hospitals, the Wynne government is forcing the Sault to fight an uphill battle to attract cardiologists," said Krmpotich. "Sault patients are being put through a tougher experience right when they need care the most."

Residents are forced to travel to Sudbury or Toronto for the PCI procedure.

"Flying south to be treated was one of the worst experiences of my life," said Sault Ste. Marie resident Erno Gulyas. "I went into the operating room without seeing my wife and woke up without my family by my side. I was away from home and completely alone."

"When someone has a heart attack they need a physician, not a plane ticket," said Krmpotich. "Without better resources, and a plan to attract more specialists, some residents will continue to be forced to travel for the care they need. We can't allow our community and our patients to continue to be ignored."

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