HEALTH CARE FACILITY FOR OUTLOOK PROCEEDING

Construction on a new integrated health care centre in Outlook will begin in the spring of 2005, with provincial funding announced today.

Health Minister John Nilson has announced the province will commit $3 million toward the project estimated to cost $5.2 million. This funding is in addition to the $400,000 provided last year to finalize the scope, cost and design of the new centre.

"Our government's commitment to the project is an example of how we are continuing to invest in capital projects to ensure we have a strong network of health care facilities across the province," Nilson said. "In keeping with our Action Plan for Saskatchewan Health Care, strategic investments such as this will ensure we will be able to continue to provide high quality health care services to all Saskatchewan people in the future."

The new integrated health care centre will be attached to the existing Pioneer Home long-term care facility and will replace the existing Outlook Union Hospital. The new facility will achieve greater operating efficiencies through the better coordination of acute care, long-term care, home-care and community services in one building.

"We are very pleased to see the Outlook integrated health care centre project moving forward," Heartland Regional Health Authority Chair Lyle Leys said. "Projects like this reinforce the fact that rural Saskatchewan continues to be a viable place to live and work while providing access to a wide variety of excellent health care services."

"This is an exciting announcement for the residents of Outlook and surrounding area," Outlook Mayor Bob Stephenson said. "We've been working with our partners for years, and to now have this announcement with a date and money is very big news. It's what we've been working for."

The total provincial investment of 65 per cent of the approved project cost will be combined with local funding from the Heartland Regional Health Authority, Outlook Town Council, neighbouring rural municipalities and local fundraising efforts.

To date, local fundraising activities have raised nearly $2 million in cash donations and pledges.

Saskatchewan Health is currently working with the Heartland Health Region to determine the appropriate number of acute care and long-term care beds for the new facility.

This year, the Health Budget included $27 million for capital construction to ensure health care facilities are located where they are needed.

-30-

For More Information, Contact:

Mark Rathwell Health Regina Phone: (306) 787-4083