Health-system innovators from across the province have received awards from Health Minister Cameron Friesen for projects that have improved services for Manitoba families.

“As health care continues to transform, we need to look at innovative ways of enhancing access to consistent, reliable care at all levels of the health-care system,” said Friesen. “Today’s award winners have done just that and I congratulate all the nominees for their thoughtful ideas, hard work and dedication to improving health care in Manitoba.”

This year’s award winners included Prairie Mountain Health’s Patient-Centred Care – Inventory Management Team.

Jody Allan is Director of Patient Safety, Quality and Planning. She says they were singled out for the Inventory Management project that recently wrapped up in the region. “What we did was we looked at the medical and surgical supplies that were in place in the different facilities. Through that work, our team found there was a lot of overstocking and waste because of expired products. They helped them to organize supplies and managing the inventory.”

Allan said it was a one-time project and took about one year to complete.

“These individuals and organizations have advanced and improved care in Manitoba, and I’m pleased to be able to share their stories and recognize their hard work,” said Friesen. “Their efforts have benefited patients and serve as an inspiration to others working in the health-care system.”