Muskeg Lake Pilot Project Supports First Nations Long-term Care Needs

News Release – January 6, 2009

An innovative pilot project on the Muskeg Lake Cree Nation north of Saskatoon will provide better access to culturally-sensitive long-term care for First Nations seniors.

The Government of Saskatchewan – through the ministry of Health – is providing $1.5 million over two years to fund 15 beds that will provide health care on reserve in the Muskeg Lake Elders Care Home. The facility will continue to be licensed as a 30-bed personal care home under the authority of The Personal Care Homes Act for the duration of the project.”This pilot project will give First Nations seniors a chance to remain in their communities near their families,” First Nations and Métis Relations Minister June Draude said. “This is an opportunity to partner with a First Nation to ensure care is accessible in its home community.”

Draude says the pilot project is an exciting “first” for Saskatchewan.

“The development of a Seniors Care Strategy is a priority for our government and this pilot project is an example of our commitment to look at new and innovative ways to meet the health needs of our seniors,” Draude said.

“First Nations seniors will benefit from the government’s willingness to look at new solutions to long term care issues on reserve,” Muskeg Lake Cree Nation Chief Gil Ledoux said. “Elder care is an important issue for our people. We are pleased to work in partnership with the province on this priority initiative that will improve long term care for our elders.”

The Ministry of Health, in collaboration with the Prince Albert Parkland Health Region and Muskeg Lake Elders Care Home will conduct an evaluation of the pilot project at the end of the two years, which will include a number of factors including cultural appropriateness, administrative processes, quality of care and compliance with legislation/agreement.

The two-year pilot project is expected to cost about $750,000 a year.

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For more information, contact:

Bonny Braden
First Nations and Métis Relations
Regina
Phone: 306-787-5701
Email: bonny.braden@gov.sk.ca
Cell: 306-530-2237

Chief Gil Ledoux
Muskeg Lake Cree Nation
Marcelin
Cell: 306-229-7807