SHIN MOVING INTO SASKATCHEWAN HEALTH

Saskatchewan Health is forming a closer working relationship with the Saskatchewan Health Information Network (SHIN), to create a more integrated approach to information technology (IT) development in the health sector.

Effective today, the administration of the SHIN Treasury Board Crown corporation is being transferred to Saskatchewan Health. The move is intended to achieve better co-ordination of IT planning and reduce duplication. SHIN's ongoing work of putting essential information at the fingertips of health professionals will continue to receive focused attention through a dedicated Health Information Solutions Centre within the department.

Currently, SHIN and Saskatchewan Health both play a role in planning and delivering IT solutions to regional health authorities (RHA) and other health organizations. When new RHAs were formed last August, joint planning processes with Saskatchewan Health were established. Bringing the SHIN development and planning work into the RHA planning process will ensure that IT priorities are closely aligned with corporate health sector planning. This would include such projects as the wait-list registry and the 24-hour telephone health information line.

"The Action Plan for Saskatchewan Health Care recognizes the growing importance of computer technology in providing quality, accessible health care," Health Minister John Nilson said. "This change will allow us to make the most effective use of our IT resources, and ensure Saskatchewan residents receive the greatest benefit from emerging health technology. By combining the resources of Saskatchewan Health and SHIN, and building strong advisory linkages with RHAs and health provider groups, this important initiative will continue to receive the high priority in the health care system that it deserves."

Nilson thanked SHIN's outgoing board of directors for the advice and leadership its members have provided in the past, noting that under their leadership, good progress had been made on IT solutions for the health sector. "Through SHIN, the province has made significant strides in building the foundation for a strong health information system that supports health delivery, patient care and service providers. This is attributable, in no small part, to the dedication of those who have served on the SHIN board and the competent staff working there."

"This is a natural evolution, and supports the joint management structures that have been established following the creation of the RHAs," said Jack Grossman, who has served as Chair of the SHIN Board since 1997.

The province has received funding from Infoway, a national non-profit organization co-ordinating work on health record initiatives, to assist in developing an electronic health provider registry. Developing a closer partnership between Saskatchewan Health and SHIN will strengthen the province's ability to attract Infoway investments, further supporting health services through the innovative use of new technology.

-30-

For More Information, Contact:

Mark Rathwell Health Regina Phone: (306)787-4083