CREMONA - Alberta Heath Services (AHS) has shut down the Cremona Health Unit’s Well Child service due to falling demand, officials said.
Offered at the Cremona Community Health Centre at 106 Railway Avenue, the service provided routine vaccination and health service for infants two months of age up to preschool children.
It also offered health education, health promotion and support for parents related to adjustment to parenthood.
In a letter received by the Cremona council at the recent regularly schedule meeting, AHS’s Nicholas Thain said the decision to end the service was effective Dec. 1.
“The number of families participating in this service has declined over the years. In September (2021) there were three appointments, and October had only two visits booked,” said Thain, who is senior operating officer with community, rural and continuing care Calgary zone with AHS.
Starting on Dec. 1 the Well Child service will be offered in surrounding communities, he said.
“All at-home services for families and newborns continue, including post-postpartum wellness checks and breastfeeding visits,” he said. “There is no change to the in-home services being provided. The change in Well Child clinic location is a result of low demand in the community, and our goal to provide fiscally responsible, quality care.”
Well Child clinic services for Cremona and area residents will now be available in Cochrane, Carstairs and Sundre, he said.
“Future appointments will be accommodated at these locations,” he said.
