Mr. Chairman, the Department of Health's capital budget for the 1993-94 fiscal year reflects a practical commitment to planning. Faced with the reality of restraint, the proposed capital budget provides the necessary appropriation for essential projects.
This budget supports the provision of health care as close to home as possible based on considerations of safety, quality of care and cost. It also supports the process of developing strategic and multi-year operational plans through the collaborative efforts of communities, health boards and the department.
While projects have been identified for funding in 1993-94, it is proposed that they will only proceed after the specific need has been confirmed, and appropriate planning activities have been completed.
Improved accessibility to dental services for children is also addressed in the budget. The Department of Health and Education will continue to collaborate on the provision of properly equipped dental services in schools which will be renovated.
Emphasis will be placed on renovating health facilities to extend their useful life span. Proposed allocations for minor renovations and code upgrades will complement the improved facility maintenance programs. A periodic evaluation of the condition of the facilities will be the basis on which capital projects are identified and priorized.
The department will continue to identify technology which is suitable for use in health facilities in the north and meets service needs and cost efficiencies.
The need to further explore the use of computer systems and the linkage to southern resources management and delivery of services is also addressed in the budget. Expanded use of computer based programs for the management of health information is critical if the health system is to operate efficiently.
Mr. Chairman, in summary, I am recommending funding of $5.850 million. The key elements of the proposed 1993-94 programs are:
1. Planning activities within the health system as a basis for determining future needs;
2. Improved computerized health and financial information systems in support of planning and management generally;
3. Improved health technology assessment as a basis for the upgrading or replacement of medical equipment;
4. Renovation and upgrading of health facilities to extend their useful life span; and
5. Improved facilities in schools to facilitate dental services for children.
Mr. Chairman, I would like to bring in the officials of the Department of Health. Thank you.