Released on July 29, 1999
Saskatchewan health districts got a cash injection this month to helpwith their Y2K efforts.
The $13.9 million pay-out is the first from a $50 million fund created
in this year's budget to ensure access to vital health services will
not be interrupted by the transition to the new millennium.
Six districts, including the Regina Health District, got a share of
this first disbursement from the Millennium Fund for Medical Equipment
and Technology, based on their plans for technological upgrades. The
money will be used to upgrade medical equipment with embedded computer
chips (such as defibrillators, intravenous pumps and heart monitors),
health facilities and their infrastructure (including heating and
electrical systems, fire alarms and automatic doors) and computer
systems.
"Testing and replacing vital equipment and systems now will smooth the
way for districts to maintain business as usual in the new
millennium," Associate Minister of Health Judy Junor said.
The health districts, along with the department, have been evaluating
Year 2000 needs for several months. The remaining districts are
expected to apply for their first instalment of Y2K funding over the
next several weeks.
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For more information, contact:
Jeff Brown
Saskatchewan Health
Regina, Phone: (306) 787-4088