Sun Country Regional Health Authority approved a balanced operating budget for the 2014-15 operating year at its regular meeting on Wednesday, May 28.
The budget incorporates the Region's vision, health priorities and strategic directions. The approved budget includes planned revenue and expenses totaling $146 million. Although this budget is slightly higher than the previous year, it is considered tight and largely status quo.
"The budget reflects some increases in contracts with primary health doctors, inflation and compensation increases. The Region received approval for a cataract program that is expected to be launched in November. However, with additions and changes we have also had to make efficiencies to achieve a break-even status," says Marga Cugnet, CEO Sun Country Health Region.
The approved operating budget also includes strategic initiative and efficiency priorities, meeting the Ministry of Health targets for workforce optimization best use of staff time, and shared services.
"Although we received targeted increases, the Region was also challenged to implement efficiencies in its operations. The use of lean techniques and initiatives has helped achieve this balanced budget without laying off staff. We are learning how to strategically bend the cost curve and still maintain or improve quality and services."
"Sun Country Health Region must continue to generate efficiencies in all areas to be able to fund those strategic initiatives that directly benefit patients and residents. We remain focused on ensuring our long-term programs and services are sustainable."
"Our operations are also being positively impacted by the improvement efforts underway by staff members and Patient and Family Advisors who are working with us," said Cugnet.
