Healthcare capacity, continuing care and future service needs were among the topics discussed during a recent meeting between the Bonnyville Health Centre Community Board and Bonnyville–Cold Lake–St. Paul MLA Scott Cyr.

The meeting took place at the Bonnyville Health Centre, where board members shared feedback gathered from residents and discussed healthcare challenges facing the region as it continues to grow.

Connecting the community with healthcare decision-makers

The Covenant Bonnyville Community Board is made up of local volunteers who help bridge the gap between Covenant Health, healthcare providers, patients and the community.

Their role includes gathering community feedback, advocating for local healthcare priorities and ensuring residents’ concerns are reflected in conversations about healthcare planning and services.

According to Cyr, the board’s work extends far beyond formal meetings.

“What makes the Board unique is that its work extends well beyond the boardroom,” he said.

Board members are frequently involved in community outreach activities, including visiting patients, supporting wellness initiatives and participating in local events.

Healthcare pressures discussed

During the meeting, several healthcare priorities identified through community engagement were discussed, including:

• Continuing care capacity
• Long-term care needs
• Diagnostic imaging services
• Emergency department pressures
• Future healthcare demands linked to regional growth

Cyr said hearing directly from community volunteers provides valuable insight into the realities facing healthcare providers and patients in northeastern Alberta.

“Conversations like these help inform ongoing advocacy efforts as we work to strengthen healthcare services and capacity for a growing region,” he said.

Volunteers recognized for community leadership

Cyr also recognized board chair Audrey Campbell and fellow board members for their ongoing efforts to support healthcare in the Bonnyville area.

Through advocacy, outreach and volunteer work, the board helps connect residents, healthcare providers and community organizations.

“Their dedication to supporting both residents and healthcare workers helps ensure local voices continue to be heard as our healthcare system evolves and grows,” Cyr said.

Appreciation for healthcare workers

The meeting also included recognition of healthcare professionals working throughout the Bonnyville Health Centre.

Cyr thanked Site Administrator Shelly Franklin, Covenant Health staff, physicians, nurses, allied health professionals and support staff for their work caring for residents across the region.

“Whether caring for a patient in the emergency department, welcoming a new baby into the world, supporting a family through a difficult time, or helping someone recover and return home, their work touches countless lives across our region,” he said.

Looking ahead

As healthcare continues to be one of the most frequently raised concerns among residents, discussions around capacity, diagnostic services and long-term planning are expected to remain ongoing priorities.

The meeting highlighted the role community boards play in ensuring local voices remain part of those conversations, while helping strengthen connections between healthcare providers and the communities they serve.

“Strong communities are built by people who step forward to serve others,” Cyr said. “The Bonnyville Health Centre Community Board is a great example of that commitment in action.”