ENHANCING EMERGENCY ROOM SERVICES IN MOOSE JAW AND SWIFT CURRENT

Saskatchewan Health is providing funding to establish full-time, 24-hour, on-site emergency room physician services in Moose Jaw and Swift Current.

"This funding is consistent with our Action Plan commitment to strengthen emergency services in Saskatchewan's regional hospitals," Health Minister John Nilson said. "We are pleased to be able to enhance emergency coverage for the people in the Moose Jaw and Swift Current areas."

Similar emergency care funding was previously provided to regional hospitals in Yorkton, North Battleford and Prince Albert.

"This funding will add to the existing high standard of care that our patients are currently receiving in our emergency department," Cypress Regional Health Authority Chief Executive Officer Andrew Will said. "The availability of a dedicated emergency room physician will provide an enhanced quality of care level, as the physician and registered nursing staff will be able to provide a faster assessment and treatment of the patient's condition."

Enhancing emergency services will benefit both urban and rural residents of the two health regions, which serve a total of 100,000 people.

"This new funding is greatly appreciated," Five Hills Regional Heath Authority chair Dale Toni said. "It is another important step in enhancing regional acute care and emergency services at Moose Jaw Union Hospital."

Saskatchewan Health officials are working with the health regions to finalize implementation details.

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For More Information, Contact:

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