Manitoba news: spine surgery program created [Video]

Manitoba will be performing more spinal surgeries in the province, Health Minister Uzoma Asagwara said Tuesday.

Asagwara announced the creation of the provincial spine program, spending $12 million to help reduce wait times for Manitobans needing spinal surgery.

“The number of Manitobans that experience spinal pain or trauma paints a grim picture,”Asagwara said. “These people are our friends, family members, colleagues and community members, and every day they are living in pain. For some folks, they’ve been living in pain with no end in sight.”

Under the new program, the number of spinal surgeries performed in Manitoba will increase by over 50 per cent beginning May 1 at Concordia Hospital, Brandon Regional Health Centre and Health Sciences Centre. An outpatient clinic for spinal injuries will also be set up at HSC.

“This investment ensures that Manitobans dealing with spine pain and trauma receive timely care, so they can get swiftly …