Released on May 12, 1999
Health Minister Pat Atkinson today welcomed Regina's new MRI, whichwill improve access to health services and reduce waiting times for
diagnostic testing for citizens of southern Saskatchewan.
"This MRI marks a milestone in the evolution of quality health
services for southern Saskatchewan," Atkinson said.
Saskatchewan Health has provided initial operating funding of $600,000
for the new MRI in the first year of operation. The province also
funded $2.4 million in site construction and start-up costs.
The province worked in partnership with the Regina Health District and
the Hospitals of Regina Foundation which raised $2.5 million through
its Life is Worth Giving campaign.
Atkinson said the province is committed to strengthening and improving
the health system in Saskatchewan.
"We have invested $1.9 billion in health this year -- an increase of
$195 million, more than 11 per cent, over last year. Our budget is
focussed on issues that are important to Saskatchewan citizens."
She said priority areas include shorter waiting times for diagnostic
procedures and elective surgery, enhanced health services for women
and improved cancer services.
"There are examples of innovations and improvements in many areas
of health, for the good of virtually every community in this
province."
The minister cited the establishment of a bone density program
for southern Saskatchewan, the second such program in the
province and the addition of a mobile CT scanner as examples of
services that will help individuals throughout southern
Saskatchewan.
- 30 -
For more information, contact:
Jeff Brown
Communications Branch
Saskatchewan Health
Regina
Phone: (306) 787-4088