The C.W. Wiebe Medical Clinic has acquired new equipment that will save patients multiple trips a week to Winnipeg.

A new $40,000 UVB machine will provide treatment for dermatological conditions like psoriasis and significant eczema.

"It's the gold standard treatment for a number of conditions for patients," Clinic Manager Jim Neufeld said. "But it's been very hard for people to access it."

Similar to a stand-up tanning booth, the machine uses a specific spectrum of light to treat skin conditions.

"There's definitely a need, there [are] lots of people who will benefit from it," Dr. Anel Basson said, adding alternative treatments with creams can cause a number of side effects and often aren't as effective as the UVB light treatments.

Treatments are generally required up to three times a week, but only take a few minutes. In the past patients would've travelled often for a very quick, simple service.

"What we're trying to accomplish here is getting patients treated at home as much as possible," Neufeld said. "Breaking down barriers for patients to get the appropriate treatment they need."

He noted the treatment is available to everyone in the region, though the treatment must be prescribed by a dermatologist.

"It has the potential to impact people from a significant geographical area," he said, adding the closest other options are in Portage, Brandon, and Winnipeg.