To the Editor:
Two and a half years ago, and building on policy decisions made by the previous NDP administration, our government completed the analysis of this shared service and decided to contract linen laundry services to a private company. The contract with K-Bro Linens will save Saskatchewan’s health care system nearly $100 million over the next ten years. These savings will be invested in health care, in the front-line staff and infrastructure in communities throughout the province.
K-Bro Linens has operated in BC, Alberta, Ontario, and Quebec for over sixty years. With their central facility in Regina and delivery depots in Saskatoon and Prince Albert, all of Saskatchewan will start to take advantage of this service this month.
The new linen contract is not only cost-effective, but will also improve infection prevention and control. In preparation for this transition, health regions have been making a number of changes that included higher quality bedding products, improved methods for transporting soiled linen, and better inventory control procedures. As part of the contract, delivery is guaranteed and the Government of Saskatchewan will be empowered to conduct quality audits and will have the ability to levy penalties should these standards not be met.
Over the last few years, we have worked hard alongside 3sHealth, health regions, and unions to lessen the impact to employees throughout the health care system. All employees who are affected are being offered supports such as severances, assistance with financial planning and employment services within their regional health authorities, as determined by our on-going work with their respective provider unions.
We are excited that this plan is now ready to be implemented. By working with a private company to deliver linen laundry services, we will not only improve services but also be in a position to invest the savings back into strengthening our health care system.
Dustin Duncan
Minister of Health
