Dear Editor,
On May 3, an article published in the Barrhead Leader outlined concerns about a perceived loss of services for sexual health education in local schools. Alberta Health Services (AHS) would like to take the opportunity to address some of the issues raised in the article.
AHS has always supported sexual health education and awareness in every community, and we continue to do so, including in Barrhead. Our team of staff members provides these services through a variety of program areas. In Barrhead, this includes our public health staff, and programs such as the PARTY Program and COOL Camp.
Most areas in the North Zone are supported by a team of Public Health nurses in their community who provide excellent services and resources, including – but not limited to – sexual health education services. We work collaboratively with schools and assess requests to meet local community needs as has always been the case.
AHS also supports both educators and parents in speaking to children about sexuality and sexual health, through our dedicated website www.teachingsexualhealth.ca.
No AHS Public Health Nurse contracts in Barrhead AHS have expired. Beyond that, AHS does not publicly comment on personnel matters.
As always, we welcome comments and discussions about health care services. Anyone with concerns about sexual health education or public health in Barrhead is invited to contact Carrie Cooper, Area Manager of Public Health, to discuss the matter. She can be reached at 780 674-4136.
Carrie Cooper,
Area Manager,
Public Health,
North Zone Area 5
