HOME CARE SERVICES INCREASED ACROSS SASKATCHEWAN

Many hospital and mental health patients will be able to return to their homes sooner, thanks to increased support to home care services by Saskatchewan Health.

This increased support meets a commitment made by Saskatchewan and other provinces and territories to institute a minimum set of home care services to be delivered across the country.

"Our government recognizes the value of the home care service," Health Minister Len Taylor said. "These new enhancements will support our acute care system by helping people to return home sooner, and to provide quality support to people in their communities, thereby cutting down on the number of hospital admissions and re-admissions."

"This increase in home care services illustrates our commitment to people with mental health issues and their families by providing the supports they need in their homes," Healthy Living Services Minister Graham Addley said. "As well, we are providing 24-hour crisis support through our provincial HealthLine, ensuring access to the information and the support they need."

The government is investing almost $3 million annually through the health regions, for the enhancement of current home care services.

Each health region submitted a plan to the government, outlining the implementation process for this new initiative. The additional funding will enhance the case management, nursing, personal care, home IV administration and palliative care services currently provided by home care. In addition, fees for personal care services such as assistance with dressing, grooming, bathing, toileting, mobility assistance and medication assistance will be eliminated, for up to 14 days, for individuals who meet the eligibility requirements for this short term acute home care initiative. Further, Saskatchewan Health and the health regions will continue to ensure palliative care clients are provided with pharmaceuticals and supplies to address their needs near end-of-life.

The new mental health home care component will also offer services, at no charge, for up to 14 days following hospital discharge. These services include case management, professional and home support. Other enhancements to the acute mental health home care services are being implemented. Crisis support is being developed and will be offered through the province's toll-free HealthLine.

"There has been concern for some time about the delivery of home care services, especially in the mental health field," Saskatchewan Schizophrenia Society Executive Director Carol Solberg said. "Today's announcement is encouraging, as it gives people with mental health issues more options for their care."

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For More Information, Contact:

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