News Release
Balancing the Budget at CKHA
CHATHAM-KENT -- Chatham-Kent Health Alliance today announced changes that will streamline care and deliver on its commitment to operate within its Ministry-funded resources.
Shona Elliott, Interim President and CEO said, “We express our appreciation to employees, physicians and volunteers for their dedication and contributions to quality patient care for families and the communities of Chatham-Kent. Through their innovation and commitment we are able to introduce some further opportunities for efficiency that will not result in any reduction of service or access to care for the people of Chatham-Kent.”
Anthony DiCaita, VP/CFO acknowledged that these are difficult times in Ontario’s Hospitals, while they await funding announcements for 2010/11.
CKHA’s balanced-budget plans include:
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Consolidating Chatham’s Short-Stay Surgical Unit and In-patient Surgical Program while maintaining current access for surgical patients
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Investigating the addition of ‘flex beds’ when patient visits require it
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Consolidating Chatham’s adult and paediatric Pre-admit Clinics and Day Surgery
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Selected skill mix changes where appropriate & maximized scope of practice
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0% economic increase in non-union salaries while honouring current collective agreements as legislated by Bill 16
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Implementing efficiencies to achieve benchmark performance at the 25th percentile
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Implementation of the 09/10 Deloitte Operational Review
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Reviewing leading practice opportunities identified by the Ontario Hospital Association
These changes, required to achieve a 2010/11 balanced budget, will result in some adjustments in the staffing complement in some departments. CKHA will make every effort to minimize adverse effects on employees through Early Retirement offers, Voluntary Exits and other options available through collective agreements.
Approximately 15 unionized positions would potentially be affected, however with realignment of staff, the possible staff reduction is expected to be 6 positions. Meetings were held with all union leadership this week. In the last calendar year, CKHA has also reduced management positions and has done realignments to support front line staff and direct patient care.
In the 2010/11 budget, CKHA has planned for the continuation of 24/7 Emergency Departments in Chatham and Wallaceburg; and no permanent bed closures.
CKHA’s operating budget is approximately $140 million, and it employs 1300 staff.
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