Based on support from key clinicians, specialists, medical professionals and health leaders, Health Minister Dustin Duncan is confident changes to pediatric services approved by the Regina Qu'Appelle Health Region (RQHR) board will result in safer, better, high quality health care for children.
"Earlier on in this process, I was very clear that no changes would occur unless they improve care for the children who depend on these services," Duncan said. "I have received those assurances from key pediatricians, pediatric oncologists, an infection control specialist and others that changes will improve care, safety and better meet the health needs of children in southern Saskatchewan."
Government has provided $2.65 million in 2013-14 for enhancements to pediatric intensive care in Saskatoon. This funding will help support changes the RQHR board approved to transition its Medical Pediatric Intensive Care Unit to a High Acuity Unit, resulting in a greater number of transfers of critically ill or injured children to Saskatoon. Further, the Ministry of Health will be amending its critical care ambulance transfer policy to cover the cost of any transfers of critically ill or injured children to/from Regina and Saskatoon.
Overall, the province is strengthening pediatric services in Saskatchewan, including more than $215 million committed for a new Children's Hospital in Saskatoon and a 27 per cent increase in the number of pediatricians practicing in Saskatchewan.
More information on the RQHR decision can be found at http://www.rqhealth.ca/.
