PROVINCE CONFIRMS COMMITMENT TO REGINA CENTRE FOR MOTHER BABY CARE

Saskatchewan Health has committed $9 million for a family-centred care unit for mothers and newborns in a renovated area of the Regina General Hospital.

The renovations will bring the maternal and newborn care program areas at the hospital into line with national guidelines, and will create a more supportive environment for families and newborns. Officials gave members of the media a tour of the Centre's location today, and unveiled updated floor plans of what the Centre will be like.

When completed, the multi-phase renovation will enhance the existing Labour and Birth unit, the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, and related functions, with special emphasis on improving the environment for families. The family-centred model will allow babies to room-in with their mothers in a private room.

"We want to create an environment where having a baby and learning proper care can better involve the whole family," Health Minister John Nilson said. "This family-centred approach will meet families' and infants needs better. Saskatchewan Health is pleased to fund the capital construction costs of $9 million needed for this new facility that will serve families throughout southern Saskatchewan for decades to come."

The additional $6 million needed for new medical equipment and modern furnishings is being raised through the Small is Big campaign under the direction of the Hospitals of Regina Foundation.

"The new Centre will provide families with access to modern comfortable facilities, the newest high-tech equipment and family centred care," Regina Qu'Appelle Regional Health Authority chairperson Murray Knuttila said. "It means babies room with their moms and families learn to care for their newborns before taking them home."

Planning for the centre has involved frontline nursing staff, physicians, support staff, administration, architectural consultants and Saskatchewan Health representatives. Construction is expected to begin in 2006.

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For More Information, Contact:

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