KELSEY TRAIL HEALTH REGION RECEIVES INFRASTRUCTURE FUNDING

Released on February 21, 2005

Saskatchewan Health is distributing money to health regions from the incremental federal funding pledged to provinces at the 2004 First Ministers' Meeting. Saskatchewan received $66 million this fiscal year, which will be spent on improving patient access to quality services.

Kelsey Trail Health Region received $300,000 earmarked specifically for infrastructure upgrades. The region has identified its priorities for upgrades including a standby generator replacement, window and flooring replacements, roof repairs and replacements, air conditioning installations, and heating system upgrades and replacements.

"The regional health authorities are making wise investments that will support better patient care," Health Minister John Nilson said. "We are working together to address immediate needs within the health system, while also looking to the future to create improved, sustainable health care."

"We welcome the funding to improve health workplaces," Kelsey Trail Regional Health Authority CEO Gordon Denton said. "It will help us move toward our goal of retaining and recruiting health providers."

Health regions will receive additional funding for other areas, such as reducing surgical and diagnostic wait times, purchasing equipment, and improving patient safety. Saskatchewan Health will also invest significant portions of the federal funding in initiatives that are more provincial in nature, and that will serve the needs of all health regions.

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For More Information, Contact:

Jocelyn Argue Health Regina Phone: (306)787-4083

Rennie Harper Communications, Kelsey Trail Health Region Nipawin Phone: (306)862-6100