HOME CARE SERVICES INCREASED IN KEEWATIN YATTHÉ HEALTH REGION

Many hospital and mental health patients will be able to return to their homes sooner thanks to increased support to home care services by the Keewatin Yatthé Health Region and Saskatchewan Health.

This increased support meets a commitment made by Saskatchewan and other provinces and territories to institute a minimum set of home care services to be delivered across the country.

"Our government recognizes the value of the home care service," Health Minister Len Taylor said. "These new enhancements will support our acute care system by helping people to return home sooner, and to provide quality support to people in their communities, thereby cutting down on the number of hospital admissions and re-admissions."

"This increase in home care services illustrates our commitment to people with mental health issues and their families by providing the supports they need in their homes," Healthy Living Services Minister Graham Addley said. "As well, we are providing 24-hour crisis support through our provincial HealthLine, ensuring access to the information and the support they need."

The Keewatin Yatthé Health Region will receive $50,000 annually, for the enhancement of current home care services and the addition of a mental health home care component.

"The Keewatin Yatthé Health Region is committed to providing quality sustainable health services," Keewatin Yatthé Health Region Director of Health Promotions Elaine Malbeuf said. "Additional funding aimed at enhancing home care is a positive step."

Keewatin Yatthé Health Region submitted a plan to the government outlining the implementation process for this new initiative. Fees for personal care services such as assistance with dressing, grooming, bathing, toileting, and mobility assistance will be eliminated, for up to 14 days, for individuals who meet the criteria for this short-term acute home care initiative.

Any remaining funds will enhance case management and palliative care services currently provided by home care.

Through the provision of personal care contracts, the region's Mental Health Services will provide home support to assessed clients discharged from acute care settings or in-patient psychiatric facilities.

The new mental health home care component will also offer services at no charge for up to 14 days. These services include case management and home support, and crisis response on a province-wide basis through the province's toll-free HealthLine.

-30-

For More Information, Contact:

Jocelyn Argue Health Regina Phone: (306)787-4083

Elaine Malbeuf Keewatin Yatthe Health Region Phone: (306)288-4820