SASKATOON HEALTH REGION RECEIVES INFRASTRUCTURE FUNDING

Saskatchewan Health is distributing money to health regions from the incremental federal funding pledged to provinces at the 2004 First Ministers' Meeting. Saskatchewan received $66 million this fiscal year, which will be spent on improving patient access to quality services.

The Saskatoon Health Region received $2.45 million earmarked specifically for infrastructure upgrades. The region has identified its priorities including more than 30 projects related to heating, air conditioning and ventilation systems, elevator replacement, roofing and window replacements.

These projects will occur in health facilities in Saskatoon and throughout the health region. The projects include an elevator replacement at Porteous Lodge, and various re-roofing and window replacements at a number of hospitals and long term care facilities throughout the region.

"The regional health authorities are making wise investments that will support better patient care," Health Minister John Nilson said. "We are working together to address immediate needs within the health system, while also looking to the future to create improved, sustainable health care."

"Upgrading infrastructure is a necessary part of sustaining our current system and these improvements will directly benefit our patients and staff," Saskatoon Regional Health Authority Chair Darlene Eberle said.

Health regions will receive additional funding for other areas, such as purchasing equipment and improving patient safety. Saskatchewan Health will also invest significant portions of the federal funding in initiatives that are more provincial in nature and will serve the needs of all health regions.

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For More Information, Contact:

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

Leanne Nyirfa Saskatoon Health Region Saskatoon Phone: (306)655-3386