SCDHB

Media Release from the Minister of Health, Tony Ryall:

The Government has increased the South Canterbury District Health Board's funding by around $5 million in this year's Budget, to a total of around $162 million.

Health Minister Tony Ryall says "Vote Health is the single biggest item of new operating spending in Budget 2010, reflecting this Government's commitment to protect and improve frontline health services for New Zealanders."

"Altogether, the Government has announced an additional $2.1 billion investment in health priorities over the next four years – including $512 million in 2010/11."

"Of that $512 million, around $407 million is going to DHBs. The balance will go towards national programmes such as the bowel cancer screening pilot, mental health, extra elective surgery, additional cochlear implants, and an increase in disability support funding."

"This is a significant funding increase, despite the difficult economic situation. It will help protect our public health service in real terms against inflation and population growth."




Response from SCDHB Chief Executive Chris Fleming:

South Canterbury DHB is thankful for the increase in funding announced in today’s budget. This money, along with an estimated $1.4 million in efficiencies already planned for next year, will ensure that we can continue to provide a high level of service to the community.

Despite difficult times, we are pleased that this funding has left us in a position of not needing to consider any reductions in health and disability services for financial reasons within South Canterbury over the coming year.

About $295,000 of the new funding will go towards providing extra elective services. The money will also be used to meet wage and salary increases already agreed with staff, along with meeting demand driven service growth . Some of it will also be utilized to fund previously announced government initiatives including more access to respite care, longer post natal stays in the maternity unit, and increased public access to prescription medicines.

The details around this spending will be released to the public in our District Annual Plan as soon as it is approved.