In the latest provincial budget, Saskatchewan has earmarked more than $500 million for construction projects, primarily aimed at bolstering healthcare infrastructure in Prince Albert, Weyburn, and other key centers across the province.
While this substantial investment is welcomed, healthcare professionals caution that simply erecting new buildings won’t address the underlying issue of staff shortages.
Tracy Zambory, President of the Saskatchewan Union of Nurses, expressed disappointment, stressing that the essence of healthcare lies in the individuals delivering the services. Zambory criticized the budget’s heavy reliance on short-term contract workers, emphasizing the necessity for greater focus on staff retention and permanent hires.
The budget outlines $7.6 billion in healthcare spending, a notable 10.6% increase from the previous year. Among the significant allocations for infrastructure are:
$180 million for the redevelopment of Prince Albert Victoria Hospital.
$55 million for the replacement project of Weyburn General Hospital.
$27 million for the construction of the La Ronge long-term care project.
$22 million to finalize the construction of the Regina General Hospital parkade.
$20 million for Regina’s long-term care specialized beds project.
The total healthcare infrastructure investment stands at $516.8 million, reflecting an increase of $179.3 million from the preceding budget.
In response to concerns raised, Saskatchewan Health Minister Everett Hindley highlighted forthcoming measures, including the establishment of a Regina urgent care center and the expansion of nurse practitioner services. Additionally, Hindley mentioned the recent announcement of $560 million in federal health transfers to Saskatchewan, emphasizing recruitment, retention, and training as key areas of focus.
Bashir Jalloh, President of CUPE 5430, reiterated the pressing need for more long-term care facilities and echoed Zambory’s emphasis on staff retention as pivotal for system enhancement.
Dr. Annette Epp, President of the Saskatchewan Medical Association, concurred, emphasizing the importance of addressing issues such as family doctor shortages. Epp commended the recently ratified contract between SMA and the government as a positive step forward.
Minister Hindley affirmed the government’s commitment to bolstering healthcare resources, particularly in remote and rural communities. He assured that measures are underway to address staffing concerns, including the imminent opening of Regina’s urgent care center.
As the budget undergoes further scrutiny in the coming days, healthcare stakeholders remain cautiously optimistic about the proposed measures and their potential impact on addressing the systemic challenges within Saskatchewan’s healthcare system.
