2005 IS HEALTH CARD RENEWAL YEAR IN SASKATCHEWAN

This fall, Saskatchewan people have been receiving packages in the mail containing renewal stickers for their Saskatchewan Health Services card. Current health cards expire December 31st, 2005.

People who have not yet received a renewal package in the mail are asked to contact Saskatchewan Health Registration toll-free at 1-800-667-7551, or in Regina at 787-3251.

In honour of the province's 100th anniversary, the new stickers feature Saskatchewan's centennial logo.

"Medicare is considered Saskatchewan's gift to Canada," Health Minister John Nilson said. "Celebrating the centennial on our health cards is a perfect way to recognize the importance of our province and the contribution we've made to the country's publicly funded system."

Residents are asked to place the 2005 sticker on the upper right front of their health card immediately upon receipt. The new sticker validates the health services card until December 31st, 2008, and ensures continued access to valuable health benefits.

The renewal package also includes: an organ and tissue donor consent card and a red donor sticker to be placed on the health card should residents consider this valuable gift; HealthLine stickers to be placed on or near a phone for easy access to 24 hour - 7 day a week health advice; and a postcard with important health contact information that residents should keep close at hand for easy reference.

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For More Information, Contact:

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