Two hospitals team up for better vision

Fresh strategy brings more eye surgeries to Central Alberta

Story by Gayleen Froese

Access to eye surgery is growing for residents across Central Alberta with the backing of two rural hospitals.

Cataract surgery availability is rising in Innisfail Health Centre, while Wetaskiwin Hospital and Care Centre will now be providing retinal surgeries. This dual approach will see more efficient use of resources and ultimately create more surgical spots.

“We’re excited to be able to provide retinal surgeries in Wetaskiwin,” says Robyn Staffen, who manages day surgery at Wetaskiwin Hospital and Care Centre. “Both retinal and cataract surgeries can make a big difference in the lives of patients — and that’s something we’re happy to be a part of. We’re also pleased to help increase overall capacity in central Alberta.”

Retinal services were previously offered at Innisfail Health Centre, which is preparing to expand their other surgical programs through the addition of a second operating room.

These moves are part of the Alberta Surgical Initiative, which is growing surgical capacity across the province. Even before the its second operating room opens, Innisfail will be able to offer more cataract surgeries, thanks to Wetaskiwin now taking on retinal surgeries.

“Timely care is of huge benefit for patients who need retinal surgery,” adds Staffen. “It’s great to provide that and to welcome these patients to our facility.”

To date, 10 retinal surgeries have been performed at Wetaskiwin Hospital and Care Centre, with a goal to do 70 by year’s end.