SASKATCHEWAN MOVING AHEAD ON DIAGNOSTIC SERVICES PLAN

Saskatchewan is moving forward on another national "first" by developing a comprehensive strategy for diagnostic imaging services.

Health Minister John Nilson announced today that he has received a report on how to manage medical imaging capacity, and improve access to quality diagnostic services across the province.

"The most efficient way to utilize our financial resources and our health professionals is to have a coordinated provincial plan for diagnostic services," Nilson said. "Saskatchewan will once again be at the forefront, in seeking creative ways to ensure more consistent, accessible and fair diagnostic imaging services for Saskatchewan people."

The report was submitted by a provincial Diagnostic Imaging Steering Committee led by Dr. Peter Glynn, Chair of the Saskatchewan Surgical Care Network (SSCN). Among its 17 recommendations is the creation of a Diagnostic Imaging Network advisory body, similar in nature to the SSCN. "Establishing the Network will be the first step in developing a provincial strategy," Nilson said.

The report also recommends the development of appropriate guidelines that would allow creation of a diagnostic imaging patient registry. One million dollars for the start up work needed to create a registry will come from the $66 million in incremental federal funding pledged to provinces at the 2004 First Ministers' meeting.

"Our experience with the SSCN proves that valid, reliable, complete information is vital for effective management of wait lists and improved patient access," Dr. Glynn said. "Saskatchewan is building a reputation as a model for the rest of Canada, in management of surgical and diagnostic services, and in effective collection and use of comprehensive health information."

Appointments to the DI Network are expected by this spring. The province continues to take other action to improve access to diagnostic imaging services - a key recommendation in The Action Plan for Saskatchewan Health Care. Significant provincial and federal funding is being directed at improving MRI and CT capacity, and addressing priority equipment needs.

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For More Information, Contact:

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