Health authority proud of Lab West care despite recent suicides, CEO says

The Labrador-Grenfell Health Authority stands by the services offered in Labrador West, despite comments made by a former psychiatrist that more care is needed in the region.

There have been five suicides overthe last eight months in Labrador West, and a cry for more services by some locals and former doctors.

Still, the health authority told CBC News it was proud of its services in the region.

• IOC connected to recent Labrador West suicides: health minister

• Suicides in Labrador West: Grieving mother says her son faced inhumane treatment

"Labrador-GrenfellHealth is proud of the quality health care services provided by all health care professionals in Labrador West and all areas of the region," said Labrador-Grenfell CEO Tony Wakeham.

Labrador-Grenfell Health declined interview requests, and instead sent a written statement.

The statement comes on the heels of comments made by Dr. Minal Mistry, a psychiatrist in Happy Valley-Goose Bay between 2013 and 2015.

Mistrytold CBC he urged the authority to implement better services in the area and warned them of the high suicide risk. He advocated for a permanent specialist to be placed in Lab West, but his request was not fulfilled.

Instead, Mistry made regular trips to the region while being based out of Happy Valley-Goose Bay. Since leaving his job in 2015, the post has not been filled.

• Labrador West needs more psychiatry care, says former doctor

Labrador-Grenfell provides visiting specialists and regular services, aided psychiatry and health consultations by phone.

While the authority stands by the care offered, Mistryis allowed to voice his concerns, Wakeham said.

"[Mistry]was one member of a team of mental health and addictions professionals who deliver a range of services to clients and is entitled to express his opinion."