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NEW COMMITTEE PROVIDES ADDED REVIEW OF MEDICAL COVERAGE REQUESTS

Released on July 13, 2011

The Saskatchewan government is putting patients first, by helping to ensure decisions on out-of-province and out-of-country medical coverage are consistent, fairly applied and transparent.

Today, Health Minister Don McMorris appointed members to the new Health Services Review Committee that can review government decisions made on out-of-province and out-of-country medical coverage.

"Establishing this review committee further demonstrates our government's commitment to a patient-centred health care system for all Saskatchewan residents," McMorris said. "I am very pleased to welcome the members to the new Health Services Review Committee."

For those patients who request it, this independent committee provides a timely review of Ministry of Health decisions to ensure that government policy was followed.

Coverage for out-of-country treatment is only considered in exceptional circumstances and must have prior approval from the Ministry of Health. The Ministry provided $4.3 million in funding for out-of-country treatment in 2009-10.

Under a reciprocal billing agreement, prior approval is not required for the vast majority of hospital and physician services received in other provinces. However, some services do require prior approval such as alcohol and drug, mental health, problem gambling, rehabilitation and home care services.

Three members will review each request for reconsideration of coverage; a chair with legal or administrative expertise, a physician or other health professional and a public representative. Several different members are appointed in each role to ensure availability and scheduling of timely reviews.

The committee will only have the authority to make recommendations effective today, the date all committee members are appointed.

See attachment for names of members as well as information on accessing the committee. Information is also posted on the Ministry of Health's website at http://health.gov.sk.ca.

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For more information, contact:

Tyler McMurchy
Health
Regina
Phone: 306-787-4083

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