For Immediate Release
March 12, 2025
NL NDP Leader Jim Dinn (St. John’s Centre) continued to challenge the Minister of Health today in the House of Assembly on what exactly is happening with the c-arm fluoroscopy unit at St. Clare’s. This machine is vital in the treatment of chronic pain and other conditions.
Yesterday, Dinn pressed the Minister on the whereabouts of the C-arm fluoroscopy unit after patients raised concerns about delays in their care due to the unit being "missing." In response, the Minister stated that the unit was in the room and fully operational. Dinn says this contradicts what patients and doctors are reporting.
“I find it interesting that the Minister was quick to stand and express to the House that the unit is not missing and is in operation at the hospital when I have patients calling me telling me they haven’t been able to access this care since December,” said Dinn.
The Minister also said that the old C-arm unit would be replaced with a new one in two weeks, and gave assurances there would be no disruption to patient services. In contrast, Dinn says, patients have been told they cannot book procedural appointments until mid-November 2025, when the unit is expected to be replaced. He wants to know the real story.
"I have to question where the Minister is getting this information and, if it is accurate, how such a major miscommunication could occur between the NL Health Services, doctors, and patients," said Dinn. "Regardless of how long it takes to replace this unit, this level of miscommunication is deeply troubling. When doctors are left in the dark about essential equipment crucial to their patients' care, it does nothing to support recruitment and retention efforts.
“We shouldn’t even be in a position where replacing equipment disrupts patient care. Government should be proactive, planning for replacements before they become an issue. Why does this government continue to be reactive?
“Clear, transparent communication and a proper plan for these situations should be standard practice. It’s deeply concerning that government still hasn’t figured this out.”
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For further information, contact Stephanie Curran, Media and Communications Officer, NDP Caucus at 330-0328 (o), or stephaniecurran@gov.nl.ca
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