New health-care provider fills gaps in the system

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This article was published 21/05/2024 (721 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

Excellent Care Nursing Corporation has opened its doors at 4525 Victoria Ave. to close critical gaps in health-care services, particularly in hospice, palliative care and home care.

Founder Helen Onuke said the pressing need for expanded health-care options in the Brandon area drove her decision.

“With limited bed spaces in the hospitals and limited volunteer support, many individuals were left without adequate care options,” Onuke told the Sun. “Some prefer to receive care in their homes but cannot access such service on time, which is where we come in.”

The registered nurse said she recognized the challenges faced by individuals with progressive illnesses who were seeking quality care tailored to their needs.

“Excellent Care Nursing is here to support people through their health-care journey, whether it’s palliative care or general nursing services, and the goal is to provide compassionate care that meets the unique needs of each individual,” Onuke said.

“We’ve had a positive response from the community, as there’s a demand for our services, and we’re doing our best to meet it.”

To meet its expanding clientele, the health-care provider is already contemplating expanding its facilities, she said, adding its foremost priority remains delivering top-notch care to those who rely on its services. Costs for the service are paid by patients out-of-pocket.

Client Paulette Trewin said Onuke’s services are exceptional and they have a positive impact on her health.

“Helen came to my rescue when I broke my hip, which was a tough situation for me. Despite spending a month in rehab, I still struggled to manage on my own and she helped hit it off right away,” Trewin told the Sun.

“She’s like the epitome of an old-school caring nurse, always there for everyone, regardless of age. She even took care of my son when he had knee surgery, and she’s been incredibly supportive ever since.”

Another client, Maureen Yates, said she used Onuke’s transportation service when she needed to travel to Winnipeg from Brandon a few weeks ago, as she could not drive.

“She found the perfect person to drive me there and back and it was incredibly comfortable and probably one of the best rides I’ve ever had for that distance,” Yates said in an interview. “I’m not one to give glowing testimonials, but I have to say, she’s doing a wonderful job.”

Similarly, Darla Helena, the community sales manager at Riverheights Terrace, emphasized the invaluable role Onuke plays in their community.

“We’re incredibly fortunate to have her in our building. Her exceptional services benefit all our residents and are a tremendous asset to our community,” Halina said. “Her services help our seniors live here a little bit longer than they might have otherwise, with the services she and her health-care aides provide.”

Halina said Onuke does everything from helping people with compression stockings to assisting with getting in and out of bed, bathing and even conducting wellness checks.

“It’s beneficial to have her here for tasks such as monitoring blood pressure and providing personal care.”

Like other businesses, the organization is facing some challenges, Onuke said.

“Among the hurdles we’ve encountered, navigating the intricacies of the health-care system and fostering collaboration with other organizations have proved to be significant challenges,” she said. “Despite the evident demand for our services, there’s occasionally resistance towards partnering with private providers.”

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