FIVE HILLS HEALTH REGION UPGRADING EQUIPMENT

Five Hills Health Region is receiving nearly $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 just over $710,000 to purchase safety equipment and train staff in its use. Equipment will be purchased for facilities throughout the region, and includes electric beds, lifts, wheelchairs and walkers.

The remaining $273,000 will be used to upgrade surgical equipment in hospital operating rooms and recovery rooms.

"This funding allows us to purchase the kind of equipment that contributes in ways both large and small to the day-to-day comfort of patients and safety of staff," Five Hills Regional Health Authority Board chair Dale Toni said. "This is good for our community and all who have contact with the health care system. Patients will receive an improved level of care and comfort, and staff will enjoy a safer, more efficient work environment."

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

Debra Cotter
Five Hills Health Region
Moose Jaw
Phone: 306-694-0231