Saskatchewan’s healthcare system is about to enter a new phase with the opening of the Regina Urgent Care Centre, the province’s first of its kind. Premier Scott Moe, Health Minister Everett Hindley, and representatives from the Saskatchewan Health Authority, Hospitals of Regina Foundation, and other partners were at the center yesterday to celebrate it’s opening.
Located at 1320 Albert Street in Regina, the centre will officially open to the public on July 2, 2024. Initially, the centre will operate seven days a week from 8:00 a.m. to 9:30 p.m., with plans to expand these hours later this year. This phased approach aims to provide an alternative to emergency departments for minor illnesses, injuries, and mental health and addiction support that are non-life-threatening but require treatment before the next day.
“We are very proud to see all the work that has gone into the Regina urgent care project,” Moe stated. “In 2020, we began discussions with healthcare officials about strengthening the health system by addressing a gap identified between emergency departments and primary care. We are thrilled to be here today to deliver on our promise, which will significantly improve health care services for Regina and area residents.”
The $18.7 million Urgent care centre project, funded by the government with an additional $2.4 million from the Hospitals of Regina Foundation, represents a significant enhancement in accessible healthcare. The centre is staffed by a diverse team including emergency room and family physicians, nurse practitioners, registered nurses, mental health and addictions counsellors, technicians, and other professionals. This multidisciplinary team will collaborate to assess, treat, and manage patients’ needs comprehensively under one roof.
“By providing another option for patients and introducing this new model of care, the goal is to ease demand on emergency departments, connect patients to primary care practitioners, and significantly improve the overall patient experience,” Hindley explained. “We are especially pleased to be expanding points of entry into the healthcare system for residents seeking mental health and addiction support.”
SaskBuilds and Procurement Minister Terry Jenson said projects like this are important in delivering effective healthcare. “Infrastructure is an important part of delivering accessible and effective healthcare. Through facilities like these, the Government of Saskatchewan can deliver a better quality of life for the Saskatchewan people.”
The UCC’s opening is a collaborative success, which was echoed by SHA CEO Andrew Will. “This innovative care model will see a multi-disciplinary care team working collaboratively to assess, treat, and manage patients with illness, injury, and mental health and addictions needs, all under one roof. I would like to thank our partners from the Government of Saskatchewan, Graham Construction, and the Hospitals of Regina Foundation for their support in bringing a new model of care to Saskatchewan.”
Dino Sophocleous, President & CEO of the Hospitals of Regina Foundation noted the foundation’s significant contribution. “Hospitals of Regina Foundation is pleased to support Regina’s new Urgent Care Centre, through an investment of $2.42 million, providing all the technology, equipment, furniture, and fixtures for the Centre. This significant addition to Regina’s healthcare capacity will provide Regina with a new option for 24/7 access to urgent care, including mental health, supporting the best local care possible for our community.”
As the Regina Urgent Care Centre opens its doors, it will mark a new chapter in delivering timely, accessible, and comprehensive healthcare to Regina and surrounding areas, ensuring a healthier future for all residents.
