The Saskatchewan Medical Association (SMA) is pleased the provincial government has been committed to boost health spending in order to combat the COVID-19 pandemic.
“The COVID-19 pandemic is unprecedented in its scale and scope, and even though the number of cases has dropped recently, we must remain vigilant and the health system needs to be prepared,” said Dr. Allan Woo, president of the SMA.
The provincial government’s 2020-21 budget, unveiled today, allocates a record $5.8 billion toward the Ministry of Health, up $255 million from last year. Included is more than $900 million in new pandemic supports.
“We don’t know how long the pandemic will last and how much it will cost the province over the long-term, not just in 2020-21,” Dr. Woo said. “We have to be prepared to have sufficient health-care resources in place for many more months, as a minimum, to provide safe, accessible care for the people of the province. I am pleased that the government has recognized this.”
The SMA also notes the provincial budget adds resources to mental health care and addictions – for a total of $435 million or 7.5 per cent of the overall health budget. The SMA has asked the government in the past to align mental health spending to the recognized national standard of seven per cent of total health spending.
“The 2020-21 budget builds on the investments in mental health and addictions made last year, which will be welcomed by physicians and patients alike,” said Dr. Woo.
Dr. Woo noted more resources are always needed in the burgeoning health field. Issues such as surgical wait times and infrastructure demands will need to be addressed.
However, initiatives such as $15 million for planning of an expansion and renovation of Victoria Hospital in Prince Albert are welcome and much-needed improvements, he said.
“An expanded Victoria Hospital has been on the wish list of Prince Albert and northern residents for a long time,” noted Dr. Woo. “A better facility will hopefully be part of the solution to improving the health outcomes of residents of northern Saskatchewan.”
