Released on October 29, 1999
Health Minister Pat Atkinson has called for an independent review of the ReginaHealth District in order to help the district move toward balanced budgets and
maintain quality of service.
The decision to launch the review follows Atkinson's decision to decline
approval of the Regina Health District's proposed 1999-2000 health plan.
Regina's proposed budget plan projects a $22.5 million dollar deficit and is
not acceptable or sustainable in the long term," Atkinson said. "Regina Health
District plays a key role as the tertiary centre for Southern Saskatchewan and
primary service provider for district residents. The goal of the review is to
enable the district to continue providing quality care on a sound financial
footing."
Atkinson said discussions with the district have identified the review as an
important step to resolve joint concerns. "Regina District Health Board
acknowledges that escalating deficits cannot continue. The review will
recommend how to manage differently, to set priorities, and to deliver programs
in a fiscally sustainable way."
The review team will include experts on administration, nursing management and
medical staff organization. The team will be led by Bert Boyd of British
Columbia and will provide an interim report to the minister before February
2000. Boyd is a respected health management consultant who has served as CEO
for both health regions and hospitals. The review will be completed by the end
of January.
Provincial funding to the Regina Health district in 1999/2000 is $303.8
million, up over 12 per cent from 1998/99. Regina reported an operating
deficit for 1998/99 of $4.7 million.
-30-
For more information, contact:
Jeff Brown
Communications Branch
Saskatchewan Health
Regina, SK S4S 6X6
Phone: (306) 787-4088