Released on April 7, 1999
Health Minister Pat Atkinson today announced the Saskatchewan Healthbudget has allocated $5.9 million for Family Health Benefits in
1999-2000.
"The Saskatchewan Family Health Benefits Program is helping more than
22,000 low-income families improve their health and their economic
conditions," Atkinson said.
Under the program, eligible children receive dental, drug, optometric,
emergency ambulance, medical supplies and chiropractic coverage.
Adults receive eye exam and chiropractic coverage and a reduced
deductible for the Saskatchewan Prescription Drug Plan. At the end of
February there were 22,244 families, including 34,303 adults and
42,179 children receiving Family Health Benefits.
The program, started in August 1998 to assist the working poor, is
part of the government's Building Independence initiative and the
Saskatchewan Action Plan for Children. The program also makes it
easier for families to improve their economic condition by giving them
support.
"We are improving the quality of life for more than 42,000
Saskatchewan children," Atkinson said. "By ensuring that low income
working parents have the support they need and by helping other
parents dependent on assistance get back into the workforce, we are
contributing to the long-term health of their children. This is good
for kids."
The Family Health Benefits Program extends health benefits to the
working poor. For some, it removes a major disincentive to
getting off social assistance. While families receiving social
assistance receive health benefits, those in low paying or entry
level jobs usually do not.
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For more information, contact:
Jeff Brown
Communications Branch
Health
Regina
Phone: (306) 787-4088