KEEWATIN YATTHE 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.

Keewatin Yatthe Health Region received $55,000 earmarked specifically for infrastructure upgrades. The region has identified its priorities for upgrades, which include renovations to the primary care clinic in Beauval, an air conditioning system addition at Green Lake Public Health Clinic, and upgrades to the Buffalo Narrows EMS Building ventilation system.

"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."

"Our top priority is improving the quality of health of our residents," Keewatin Yatthe Regional Health Authority Chairperson Rose Daigneault said. "This new funding supports priorities outlined in our strategic plan to improve patient care, and make workplaces safer for employees."

"Our residents will benefit from these carefully planned investments," Northern Affairs Minister and Athabasca MLA Buckley Belanger added. "This will help to address one of our main challenges - attracting health professionals to northern and remote communities."

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

Richard Petit Keewatin Yatthe Health Region Buffalo Narrows Phone: (306)235-2220