Mental Health, Wellness and Recovery Minister Audrey Gordon made an announcement about rural and northern telepsychiatry today.

Telepsychiatry delivers real-time care through secure videoconferencing.

The government of Manitoba is investing over $342 thousand dollars to provide emergency telepsychiatry assessments to rural emergency departments and First Nations communities without current access to these services.

Audrey Gordon says this investment will ensure people experiencing mental health issues can have access to psychiatrist support that is timely, efficient, and reliable.

“It means people can access the care they need close to home, while continuing to receive support from friends and their family members.”

Gordon says accessing psychiatric assessments for individuals experiencing a mental health crisis can be particularly challenging in remote and rural communities including many First Nations communities across Manitoba.

Gordon adds that the Manitoba government will work with other organizations, regional health authorities and service delivery providers to improve access to mental health and addiction services.

“A five-year action plan will be created to help shape the strategic priorities of the newly created ministry of mental health, wellness, and recovery. A public engagement campaign will begin this fall, gathering input from Manitobans and key stakeholders.”

More information on mental health and addictions services in Manitoba can be found here.