REGINA — The Saskatchewan Health Authority has entered into negotiations to take over at the five Extendicare long-term care homes in the province, moving the private care homes into the public health sector.
Both the SHA and Extendicare announced that they have agreed to work collaboratively to transfer responsibility of operations, while continuing to maintain care for all residents.
“We are committed to work collaboratively with the SHA to support the transition process while remaining focused on the needs of residents, families and staff throughout,” said Extendicare president and CEO Dr. Michael Guerriere.
Extendicare operates three long-term care homes in Regina and one each in Saskatoon and Moose Jaw, as a private care provider under contract with the SHA. Approximately 550 long-term care spaces are housed amongst these five facilities.
Earlier in August, the health authority took over operations temporarily following a provincial auditor’s report that investigated a deadly COVID-19 outbreak at Extendicare Parkside in Regina.
Now, the SHA will be stepping in permanently to envelop Extendicare fully into the province’s authority.
“Moving in this direction is a result of a number of complex factors, including the lessons we have learned during the pandemic and future demand for long term care services,” said Livingstone.
An SHA statement on the announcement said that there will be no immediate changes for residents, staff or families as a result of this decision.
Quality of care for residents and job stability for staff will continue, said the SHA, and more details will be shared throughout the discussion process.
