INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY INVESTMENTS TO IMPROVE HEALTH CARE EFFICIENCY

Health regions are taking steps to improve the scheduling of health care providers.

Saskatchewan Health partnered with the Saskatchewan Association of Health Organizations (SAHO) to implement an electronic staff scheduling system over the next two years. A new staff scheduling system will make the best use of our health professionals, reduce administration and paperwork, increase time for patient care, and better manage overtime and seniority. Time currently spent by managers to schedule employees can be redirected to staff leadership, supporting colleagues in the workplace and ensuring quality care.

"The software will make more efficient use of the employees currently in the system," Health Minister Len Taylor said. "The staff scheduling software is another measure Saskatchewan Health is pursuing to help manage staff challenges in regional health authorities."

"Working with the regions and Saskatchewan Health, SAHO will lead the implementation of this comprehensive staff scheduling system that will assist the health care system in managing and continuing to improve its utilization of health human resources," SAHO President and CEO Susan Antosh said.

Currently, a variety of staff scheduling tools are being used across Saskatchewan, from manual entry systems to computer software tools.

More than 65 per cent of health sector employees (24,600 staff) are on shift work. Many work in more than one health care facility. Salaries and benefits make up more than 70 per cent of health care budgets. The staff scheduler will allow managers access to timely and accurate information to assist them in optimizing the use of human resources.

The $3 million dollar initiative is funded from the $66 million committed by the federal government at the 2004 First Ministers' meeting.

-30-

For More Information, Contact:

Jocelyn Argue Heatlh Regina Phone: (306) 787 4083