Released on May 14, 2013
Individuals and families living with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementia will be able to access more services through the expansion of the First Link program to five additional communities.
A commitment of more than $400,000 to the Alzheimer Society of Saskatchewan will see the expansion of the First Link program across the province. Four new program sites will be developed in North Battleford, Swift Current, Prince Albert and Weyburn, with a satellite office in Estevan.
“Every health care decision we make seeks to make a meaningful difference for patients and their families,” Health Minister Dustin Duncan said at an announcement at the Alzheimer Society of Saskatchewan today. “The proven success of the First Link program is exactly the type of patient-first approach that leads to a collaborative and responsive health system, and we are proud to make this investment in this important program.”
“We are pleased to partner with the government to expand First Link to new communities,” Alzheimer Society of Saskatchewan Chief Executive Officer Joanne Bracken said. “By the end of September, all the Resource Centres will be delivering programs and services to people and families affected by dementia.”
Championed for its collaborative and responsive approach by working with other agencies, community resources, and family physicians and other health care providers, this expansion of First Link across the province will enhance the quality of life for people living with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementia.
The program allows clients to link with agencies and supports at the time of diagnosis and throughout the course of their disease, rather than seeking help when in crisis. First Link provides a referral process that ensures both the engagement and response of those involved by facilitating the paperwork and other related tasks on the client’s behalf.
Currently, approximately 18,000 individuals in Saskatchewan are affected by Alzheimer’s disease and related dementia.
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For more information, contact:
Tyler McMurchy
Health
Regina
Phone: 306-787-4083
Email: tmcmurchy@health.gov.sk.ca
Cell: 306-537-3594