MAMAWETAN CHURCHILL RIVER HEALTH REGION RECEIVES 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.

Mamawetan Churchill River Health Region received $40,000 earmarked specifically for infrastructure upgrades. The region has identified its priorities for upgrades including construction of a storage facility for charts and financial records, electrical system upgrades to reduce energy costs, air conditioning installation, and lab renovations.

"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."

"We are pleased with the federal funding that has been forwarded to us," Mamawetan Churchill River Regional Health Authority Chair Louise Wiens said. "It's an opportunity for us to make improvements within our facilities to better serve the residents of our region."

"It is always good news whenever there are funds designated to provide better health care for northerners" Culture, Youth and Recreation Minister and Cumberland MLA Joan Beatty added.

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 that will serve the needs of all health regions.

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For More Information, Contact:

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

Teresa Heinrichs Mamawetan Churchill River RHA La Ronge Phone: (306)425-4834