HEALTH MINISTER MARKS WORLD AIDS DAY

Saskatchewan Ministry of Health is marking World AIDS Day by highlighting provincial efforts and progress in addressing HIV/AIDS in Saskatchewan.

Some highlights of progress to date include:

• Establishing an HIV Provincial Leadership Team; 
• Hiring six HIV Strategy Co-ordinators; 
• Establishing HIV Point of Care Testing sites (17 sites located in seven Regional Health Authorities);
•  Encouraging testing and treatment; and
• Hiring 23 front line health providers (registered nurses, social workers).

The number of HIV Point of Care Testing sites across the province will be increased over the next few years.

Saskatchewan's four-year HIV Strategy was launched in 2010 with the goals of reducing the number of new HIV infections, improving the quality of life for HIV infected individuals and reducing the risk factors for acquiring HIV infection.

"One year later, the HIV Strategy is making a difference in the lives of those who are affected by HIV," Health Minister Don McMorris said. "We have allocated over $6 million for the first two years to continue our work with partners for effective strategies to prevent and treat HIV."

Early this month, the Ministry of Health will launch a new awareness campaign encouraging people at risk to get tested and access treatment. The campaign includes YouTube videos which can be accessed on the Ministry of Health website http://www.health.gov.sk.ca/hiv-aids.

The One Year HIV Strategy Progress Update is available on the Ministry of Health website along with the 2010 HIV Annual Report at http://www.health.gov.sk.ca/hiv-aids.

The minister spoke today at the HIV Conference organized by All Nations Hope AIDS Network.

The province has proclaimed AIDS Awareness Week November 24 to December 1; World AIDS Day, December 1 and Aboriginal AIDS Awareness Week, December 1 to 5. A series of events and activities are being organized during this period by Regional Health Authorities and community-based organizations, dedicated to raising awareness and supporting people affected by HIV/AIDS.

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For more information, contact:

Tyler McMurchy
Health
Regina
Phone: 306-787-4083
Email: tyler.mcmurchy@gov.sk.ca