PROVINCE APPROVES NEW FORT QU'APPELLE HOSPITAL

Released on January 10, 2003

The Saskatchewan government is moving ahead with its plans for a new $12.8 million hospital in Fort Qu'Appelle.

Health Minister John Nilson announced today the province has approved the new hospital's programs and services, the cost of the project and the design of the building.

The pricetag includes $11.2 million for construction, which will be shared by the provincial and federal governments.

"Our government's top priority is improving the quality of health services and access to care, while ensuring our health system is sustainable into the future," Nilson said. "We have worked together with our health care partners on this project to create a facility that will serve the health needs of First Nations people as well as the rest of the community."

The new hospital will offer 14 acute care beds, an ambulance bay and space for First Nations health services, including a spiritual healing centre, shared vision centre and winter healing lodge.

"This new facility will be equipped with the appropriate medical tools and technology to provide acute care services and some health services specific to First Nations," Federal Health Minister Anne McLellan said. "It is an example of the Government of Canada's commitment to work with provinces and First Nations to provide access to high-quality health care services."

The Regina Qu'Appelle Regional Health Authority and the Fort Qu'Appelle Indian Hospital Holding Corporation will invest $1,545,000 for hospital equipment and related expenses.

"The new hospital will offer a variety of health services that reflect the diverse needs of the residents of our region," Chairperson of the Regina Qu'Appelle Regional Health Authority Murray Knuttila said. "This facility will offer these services in a location readily accessible to rural and Aboriginal people, which reflects the priorities of the province's Action Plan for Saskatchewan Health Care and a number of the recommended actions contained in the Romanow Report."

"The First Nations, through the guidance and leadership of the Elders and the Chiefs, are happy to participate in this partnership," Chairman of the Fort Qu'Appelle Indian Hospital Holding Corporation Ron Crowe said. "By locating both acute care and First Nations health services in one building, the new hospital will enhance and continue the long, rich history of serving the health needs of all the people of Fort Qu'appelle and area."

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For More Information, Contact:

Chryssoula Filippakopoulos Health Regina Phone: 306-787-4088

Lee Cowie Health Canada Regina Phone: 306-780-5550