Released on April 23, 2018
Investments Have Led to the Signing of Three Donor Physicians with Work Underway to Recruit Registered Nurse Donor Co-ordinators
The Ministry of Health and the Saskatchewan Health Authority are launching a campaign to raise awareness about the importance of organ and tissue donation. Three donor physicians have signed contracts to share a half-time position, which is responsible for providing leadership and education as part of a new model for Saskatchewan’s organ and tissue donation system.
“Our government is committed to improving Saskatchewan’s organ and tissue donation rates,” Health Minister Jim Reiter said. “In addition to signing three donor physicians, we are launching an advertising campaign to remind Saskatchewan residents that agreeing to be an organ donor saves lives.”
In 2018-19, $566,000 has been allocated for the Saskatchewan Health Authority to establish a leadership model for organ and tissue donation, including donor physicians and Registered Nurse donor co-ordinators.
The awareness campaign launch coincides with National Organ and Tissue Donation Awareness Week, and includes video and print media with powerful, real-life examples of organ donation and the impact it has on the lives of Saskatchewan people.
“Donor physicians will champion organ donation across the province,” Saskatchewan Health Authority CEO Scott Livingstone said. “Their leadership coupled with initiatives aimed at improving the donation process itself, will pave the way to improving organ donation rates in Saskatchewan.”
Speaking with loved ones about your intention to donate is important, because organ and tissue donation is only possible with the consent of next of kin.
Visit www.saskatchewan.ca to learn more about organ and tissue donation in Saskatchewan, and view the powerful, real-life experiences of three Saskatchewan families.
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For more information, contact:
Shirley Xie
Health
Regina
Phone: 306-787-4083
Email: shirley.xie@health.gov.sk.ca
Christine Spetz
Saskatchewan Health Authority
Saskatoon
Phone: 306-381-5174
Email: christine.spetz@saskhealthauthority.ca