Operation of Extendicare’s Five Saskatchewan Long-Term Care Homes to transition to the Saskatchewan Health Authority

The Saskatchewan Health Authority (SHA) and Extendicare have agreed to work collaboratively to transfer responsibility of long-term care services at Extendicare’s five long-term care homes in Saskatchewan to the SHA.

Together, the SHA and Extendicare will prioritize establishing a process to transfer operations that maintains consistency of care and service for residents and families, and works with our health system and union partners involved to ensure stability for all staff. There are no immediate changes for residents, families and staff as a result of this decision.

“We have worked closely with Extendicare throughout this process and appreciate the cooperation we’ve received during the outbreak at Parkside and throughout the course of our recent co-management arrangement,” said Scott Livingstone, SHA President and CEO. “Moving in this direction is a result of a number of complex factors, including the lessons we have learned during the pandemic and future demand for long term care services.”

During the course of the transition of responsibilities from Extendicare to the SHA, both organizations will continue to work within the framework of the recently extended co-management agreement.

“Extendicare has more than 50 years of experience in Canada working cooperatively with governments, health agencies and community partners to identify solutions to the challenges we face in the sector,” said Dr. Michael Guerriere, President and CEO, Extendicare. “We are committed to work collaboratively with the SHA to support the transition process while remaining focused on the needs of residents, families and staff throughout.”

Both organizations have committed to sharing more details with residents, families and staff as next steps are determined, including sharing more about the process for transition and the expected timelines.

“I want to thank Extendicare for their service to the residents of Saskatchewan,” said Livingstone. “We know as this transition proceeds both organizations are committed to making it as seamless as possible for the residents, families and staff.”

Background Information:

• Extendicare’s five homes currently provide approximately 550 long-term care spaces in total.
• Extendicare homes are located in Regina (3), Saskatoon and Moose Jaw.
• SHA is responsible for more than 150 long term care homes and more than 60 hospitals across the province.