Patients question future of Cumberland County pain clinic
Ann Gilroy is a patient at the pain clinic at the Cumberland Regional Health Care Centre in Springhill, N.S. She has been receiving lidocaine infusion therapy every four weeks for chronic pain stemming from a car accident 15 years ago. The 60-year-old credits the clinic for giving her back her independence and mobility. However, her next appointment on Aug 16 is uncertain, leaving her anxious about the return of debilitating pain.
Despite concerns from patients like Gilroy, Nova Scotia Health has reassured that appointments will continue to be scheduled at the pain clinic. There have been rumors circulating online about the clinic closing, but the health authority maintains that discussions are ongoing with physicians to ensure continuity of care. While parts of the clinic are relocating within the hospital and undergoing upgrades, there is no formal resignation from doctors and six months’ notice is required for any changes.
Independent MLA for Cumberland North, Elizabeth Smith-McCrossin, raised concerns about the new space being offered to the clinic, describing it as inadequate and potentially unsafe for physicians to provide interventions. Patients like Scott McKee have also voiced their worries about the lack of information regarding their appointments and the potential disruptions to their treatments. McKee, who owns a service station in Southampton, emphasized the importance of the clinic for his well-being and the well-being of others in the community.
Chris Gallagher, another patient at the clinic, shared his fears about the future of the facility that has enabled him to regain mobility and independence. With uncertainty looming over the clinic’s fate, patients have come together to petition Cumberland South MLA Tory Rushton to keep the clinic open.
Smith-McCrossin has taken action by sending an urgent letter to Health Minister Michelle Thompson, seeking clarification on the rumors and advocating for the clinic to remain operational in Cumberland. She believes that Nova Scotia Health should be exploring ways to expand the clinic and reduce the lengthy waitlist for patients in need of care.
As the situation unfolds, patients at the pain clinic are left in limbo, hoping for clarity and reassurance about the future of their treatments. The Department of Health and Wellness has deferred comments to Nova Scotia Health, leaving patients and advocates eager for answers.
