Budget 2013: A $2.9 Billion Commitment to the Health and Well-Being of
Families Throughout Newfoundland and Labrador

Building on the significant enhancements made to the province’s health care system in recent years, Budget 2013: A Sound Plan, A Secure Future further strengthens the Dunderdale Government’s commitment to families in all regions of Newfoundland and Labrador.

“Our government’s $2.9 billion commitment to health care in Budget 2013 adds to the strategic investments made in the provincial health care system, which has resulted in Newfoundland and Labrador being second in Canada in wait times for priority areas,” said the Honourable Susan Sullivan, Minister of Health and Community Services.

“In addition to sound investments in infrastructure, long-term care and community supports, Budget 2013 also includes $9.5 million for new drug therapies, made possible in part because of savings related to our new generic drug program. Our investments will benefit families, seniors and our communities today, tomorrow, and well into the future.”

Of the Provincial Government’s Budget 2013 investment in health care, $92.3 million will strengthen long-term care and community support services to help seniors and persons with disabilities achieve optimal independence and quality of life in their home and communities. Capital investments to modernize important infrastructure continue to be a priority, highlighted by the $227 million investment over the next three years to advance construction of a new regional acute care health facility in Corner Brook, as announced on March 20. Budget 2013 also includes a re-organization of cancer screening programs, as well as funding to increase access to health services and treatments, and to undertake clinical efficiency and management reviews. Given that health care represents such a significant portion of the provincial budget, these reviews will help maximize the value for money spent on services that matter most to the people and families in this province.

The Provincial Government’s commitment to delivering quality health care and increased access to health services and treatments has positioned Newfoundland and Labrador as a leader in Canada in wait times for five priority areas including radiation treatment, cardiac bypass surgery, cataracts, hip and knee replacement, and hip fracture repair.

“Health care currently represents over 39 per cent of the total provincial budget and we are investing strategically to ensure the sustainability of our health care system,” said Minister Sullivan. “We’re proud of what has already been accomplished through the Long-Term Care and Community Support Services Strategy. Targeted initiatives such as the Paid Family Caregiving Option, funding to ensure continued access to home support and care as close to home as possible, and improved infrastructure will sustain the progress achieved to date. The goal of these investments is a modern, high-quality health care system that is responsive to the needs of individuals, their families, and communities.”

For further details see the Backgrounder: Investments in a Sustainable Health Care System.

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• Backgrounder - Budget 2013: Investments in a Sustainable Health Care System

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2013 03 26                               3:20 p.m.