Released on March 7, 2008
Prince Albert Parkland Health Region is receiving more than $1 million in funding from the provincial government for safety equipment and training and improvements to hospital surgical equipment.
"There is a pressing need for new equipment in health facilities across Saskatchewan," Health Minister Don McMorris said. "This investment will help address workplace safety issues and ensure that our hospitals have the appropriate equipment to meet patients' needs."
The health region will spend approximately $770,000 to purchase safety equipment and train staff in its use. Items to be purchased include electric beds, bariatric equipment and patient lift equipment. The remaining $310,000 will be used to upgrade surgical equipment in hospital operating rooms and recovery rooms.
"Upgrading equipment is an important investment in patient and staff safety," Prince Albert Parkland Regional Health Authority board chairperson Ray Ewanchuk said. "Investing in new equipment and technology is also a valuable tool for recruiting and retaining health care professionals in a very competitive employee market."
The investment is expected to support efforts to recruit and retain health professionals by enabling health regions to provide safer, more supportive workplaces.
The funding is part of $18 million being distributed to all health regions. Approximately $13 million will be used for safety equipment and training to reduce workplace injuries, and nearly $5 million to upgrade equipment in hospital operating rooms and recovery rooms.
-30-
For more information, contact:
Andrew Dinsmore
Health
Regina
Phone: 306-787-4083
Email: adinsmore@health.gov.sk.ca
Doug Dahl
Prince Albert Parkland Health Region
Prince Albert
Phone: 306-765-6409