Leaked emails have revealed that some Saskatchewan patients are unable to travel to Calgary for breast cancer care due to financial constraints. The Ministry of Health of Saskatchewan admitted that current compensation for out-of-province patients might not be sufficient. This temporary program, designed to address long waitlists for diagnostics, has come under scrutiny from various quarters, including the New Democratic Party (NDP).
In 2023, the Government of Saskatchewan signed a contract with a Calgary-based clinic to provide mammograms and biopsies. The initiative aimed to offer short-term relief while the province works on increasing its in-province capacity. Despite the efforts, leaked communications between a patient and a government official highlight the financial burden on patients, with some opting not to travel due to costs.
"There have been patients that chose not to go to Calgary due to costs." – A patient
Financial Barriers and Health Care Access
The NDP critic for rural and remote health, Meara Conway, voiced concerns over the financial implications of the out-of-province procedures. According to Ms. Conway, the costs associated with these procedures are approximately ten times higher than what they would be within Saskatchewan. She called on the government to enhance local capacity so that such procedures can occur within the province.
"The Sask. Party’s Calgary mammogram scheme is failing women and they know it." – Meara Conway
Patients have been offered a $1,500 travel reimbursement; however, this amount often falls short of covering the total expenses. The emails discuss that the costs for travel are "not normally insured under the Saskatchewan health system," posing a significant challenge for patients without upfront funds or transportation means.
"I completely agree with you that it is unfortunate that some people can’t participate in this initiative because they don’t have the funds available to pay the costs upfront or they don’t have a reliable vehicle to get them to Calgary and can’t afford airfare." – A patient
Government's Response and Future Plans
The Ministry of Health acknowledged these challenges and expressed hope for a more sustainable solution with the opening of the Regina Breast Health Centre in Spring 2025. Additionally, there has been a renewal of a contract with Clearpoint Health Network in Calgary, authorizing up to $2.4 million between April 2025 and March 2026. Special consideration is being provided for patients who have agreed to receive breast biopsies in Calgary.
"While we recognize that travel reimbursement may not cover the entire cost in every case, we are looking forward to the new Regina Breast Health Centre opening in Spring 2025." – The Ministry of Health
The initiative was initially described as "completely voluntary," yet financial limitations have deterred some patients from participating. The NDP continues to advocate for increased provincial capacity to ensure residents receive necessary health care services locally without incurring prohibitive costs.
