The health minister is looking into the reason why kidney patients in the western zone will be referred to St. John’s for initial assessments.

The independent member for Humber-Bay of Islands, Eddie Joyce, raised the matter with Minister Lela Evans during Question Period yesterday.

Joyce says it is his understanding that patients are being referred to St. John’s for their initial assessment, with follow-ups and treatment taking place at Western Memorial in Corner Brook. He’s concerned that will lead to an added financial burden on patients and delays in care. Minister Evans says she was not aware of the referrals and is looking into it, but does say recruitment is underway for a nephrologist for the Western Zone, and she is not aware of any patients being turned away.