For immediate release: 10 April 2006

McGUINTY GOVERNMENT INVESTS IN COMMUNICATION SYSTEM TO CONNECT DOCTORS IN COCHRANE DISTRICT
Improves Access To Health Care Services

KAPUSKASING - The McGuinty government is improving access to health care services in Cochrane District by investing in a communication system that allows physicians access to hospital diagnostic reports from their medical offices, Leona Dombrowsky, Minister of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs announced today.

"This project shows our government's commitment to improving health care and attracting more doctors to rural areas," said Dombrowsky. "This is just one of the many initiatives this government is taking to strengthen rural communities."

The government will invest $53,518 to implement a communication system linked to Sensenbrenner and Timmins District hospitals. Project partners include the Kapuskasing Regional Doctors Offices Inc. and the Sensenbrenner Hospital. This new access will allow nine physicians to view diagnostic tests conducted at the hospital from their medical offices. This will reduce the waiting period for patients receiving test results and subsequent medical attention.

"We are very pleased that the Ontario government has chosen to support our project," said Joseph Nadon, chairman of the board of directors for the Kapuskasing Regional Doctors Offices Inc. "This project is a big step in the right direction for doctors in the Cochrane District, and will benefit more than 14,000 patients in the area."

"Quality patient care requires quality information," said George Smitherman, Minister of Health and Long-Term Care. "This initiative is part of our government's plan to build a health care system that delivers on three priorities - keeping Ontarians healthy, reducing wait times and providing better access to doctors and nurses."

Today's investment was made through the Rural Economic Development (RED) program, which invests in projects that support sustainable rural economies and community partnerships - a key part of the government's plan for rural Ontario. Through the RED program, the Ontario government and its rural partners are building stronger communities that work better for the people who live in them. For more information about RED or Ontario's rural plan, visit www.omafra.gov.on.ca.

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Contacts:
Christopher Flavelle
Minister's Office
416-326-3072

Brian Cardy
Rural Investments Branch
519-826-3787