Why are cancer patients in Saskatchewan paying different hospital parking fees?

Saskatchewan implemented a new provincial parking policy that standardized practices, but enforcement varies by hospital, leading to different fees for patients depending on their location.

What is Dennis Ogrodnick's stance on Saskatchewan's hospital parking fees?

Dennis Ogrodnick, a cancer patient, believes the hospital parking fees are unfair and place an unnecessary burden on patients who frequently visit healthcare facilities for treatment.

Has the Saskatchewan Health Minister addressed the hospital parking policy?

Yes, the Saskatchewan Health Minister has asked the Saskatchewan Health Authority to review the hospital parking policy.

Home / Health / Saskatchewan Cancer Patients Face Parking Fee Pains

Saskatchewan Cancer Patients Face Parking Fee Pains

17 Dec

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Summary

Cancer patients in Saskatchewan face varying parking fees.
A new provincial policy standardized hospital parking practices.
Health Minister asked SHA to review the parking policy.

Cancer patients across Saskatchewan are experiencing a patchwork of hospital parking fees, leading to frustration and financial strain. The introduction of a new provincial parking policy by the Saskatchewan Health Authority (SHA) has resulted in inconsistent charges, with some facilities enforcing fees while others remain free. This disparity particularly affects patients outside of Regina and Saskatoon, where many community oncology programs are located.

Dennis Ogrodnick, a kidney cancer patient undergoing chemotherapy in Prince Albert, has become a vocal critic of the policy. He argues that the fees place an undue burden on individuals already battling serious illness and require frequent hospital visits for treatment and monitoring. Ogrodnick has refused offers of personal free parking, stating his advocacy is for all affected patients.

Following public outcry, the SHA made an exemption for cancer patients diagnosed before the policy change, impacting only new patients in Prince Albert. The health authority acknowledged the discrepancies, attributing them to historical management by regional bodies and an effort to standardize practices. Saskatchewan's Health Minister has requested the SHA to review the policy, though no timeline has been set.