CBC News Online | April 7, 2005
The Department of Health is one of two department that saw a funding increase in the budget. And it will account for close to 40 per cent of the total spending of government during 2005-2006
The department's total budget will be $445.3 million. However, there will be changes to the way the Island's health care facilities will be administered.
Four regional health boards and the Provincial Health Services Authority are being eliminated and placed under the administration of the newly created Department of Health.
A new separate department of Social Services and Seniors is being created to administer some of the programs formerly under the health portfolio. It will be responsible for child services, social services, and programs for seniors.
- $400,000 for Alzheimer's drugs
- $1 million for resident care in private nursing home
- $155,000 to the Best Start Program
- $465,000 for a meningitis immunization program
Murphy said the changes will save $9 million a year.
Some of the 500 jobs being cut as a result of program renewal will come from the health boards and changes in the way programs will be delivered. Murphy said those affected will be offered some of the positions in the new department.
The department is also holding back funding to repair the Montague Family Health Centre, the Seniors Home Repair program, and money will be trimmed from the nurse recruitment program.
Money for the Dental Public Health Program will also be cut by $250,000