Released on March 2, 2000
The report of the Regina Health District Review outlines a plan to move thedistrict toward the financial stability needed to protect and maintain health
care services. Health Minister Atkinson and Board Chair Anita Bergman jointly
released the report at a news conference today.
"This review gives us a clear action plan to strengthen management of the
district so that financial challenges can be addressed and health care is
protected into the future," Atkinson said. "The board has made a commitment to
work toward balanced budgets within a clear set of expectations and
conditions."
Atkinson commissioned the report in October, saying that she was unable to
approve the district's health plan based on a projected deficit of $22
million. The report cites a further $7 to 8 million in expenses subsequently
identified by the district, bringing the current year deficit to an estimated
$30 million.
The report by consultant Bert Boyd says financial controls and management
processes in the district need improvement. The Review outlines $12 million
dollars in projected savings over three years that Boyd says can be achieved
without negative impact on quality or access to care. It also asks the
province for an additional $10 million in future funding to cover unavoidable
cost increases. The $7 to 8 million in additional deficit now projected will
require further review as part of the recovery plan.
Recommendations of the report will be implemented, including:
Measures to strengthen leadership in the board and Senior Management;
A contract between the district and government outlining expectations
for achieving financial sustainability;
Development of a three-year financial recovery plan;
A special advisor to assist in implementation of the plan.
Atkinson will fill three board vacancies with individuals having strong
business skills. Boyd will be appointed as Special Advisor and provide regular
reports to the minister.
The province will assist the district in managing its debt by providing $24
million in capital funding, to cover cost overruns from Project '98 and other
capital projects. Atkinson said the question of additional operating funds
would be addressed when the provincial budget is tabled March 29.
Bergman welcomed the review as a constructive approach to required change. "We
are committed to working within this framework to achieve the financial
stability necessary for quality health care," she said. "The co-operation of
our staff, physicians and managers will be essential for us to address the
challenges ahead."
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For more information, contact:
Jeff Brown
Communications Branch
Saskatchewan Health
Regina
Phone: (306) 787-4088