FIVE HILLS HEALTH REGION INVESTS IN FACILITY REPAIRS AND SAFETY UPGRADES

Five Hills Health Region is spending $6.62 million to make its most pressing infrastructure repairs and safety upgrades, thanks to the government's $1 billion Ready for Growth initiative.

Improvements to facility exteriors and patients' rooms are among the projects that are planned to proceed this year.

"Replacing outdated safety systems and making basic building repairs are incredibly important to ensure the safety and comfort of patients and health providers," Health Minister Don McMorris said. "The government must protect our multi-billion dollar investment in our 236 publicly-funded health facilities. This year's funding partly addresses the significant backlog of maintenance, repairs and safety system upgrades."

"This significant flow of new capital allows Five Hills Health Region the opportunity to make major improvements in 12 facilities region-wide," Five Hills Health Region board chairperson Dale Toni said. "Improvements in safety, comfort and appearance benefit our patients, our residents and our talented employees."

The 2008-09 provincial budget earmarked $100 million for health region infrastructure. Five Hills Health Region is receiving the increased funding as its annual block funding for capital infrastructure.

Each health region determines its most urgent priorities, and contracts with suppliers to get the work done.

Improvement projects include upgrades to flooring, emergency light and power systems, heating and cooling controls, and plumbing and hot water systems.

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For more information, contact:

Karen Hill
Health
Regina
Phone: 306-787-4083 Craig Beesley
Five Hills Health Region
Moose Jaw
Phone: 306-694-0300