Value for Money Assessments Show DHAs Well Managed

Financial assessments of two district health authorities (DHAs) show that they are well managed, and address efficiency issues proactively.

Colchester East Hants Health Authority (CEHHA) and Pictou County Health Authority, agreed to Value for Money assessments last fall as part of an evaluation of their business plans. The plans were being evaluated due to projected deficits by each DHA.

"We were pleased to have confirmed through the assessments that the investment we are making in the health-care system is being managed wisely," said Health Minister Angus MacIsaac. "The communities served by those districts should feel confident that their health-care needs are being met by well-run organizations."

The assessments did result in some recommendations for both DHAs, including:

• development of a funding formula;
• development of a continuing care needs plan;
• improvements in the use of databases to improve quality decision making;
• targeted additional funding, when available, to CEHHA;
• improvements in financial reporting on costs and workloads.

Mr. MacIsaac noted that the Department of Health has initiatives underway to address some of the recommendations. Specifically, these initiatives include developing a strategic framework for continuing care across the province, and the rollout of the Nova Scotia Health Information system which will establish an electronic clinical information system -- including electronic health records.

"We know the DHAs need larger budgets, that is why in the last year we have added millions more to the base budget -- $19 million for ongoing operational cost pressures and $9 million for wage and benefits increases. We have also guaranteed a seven per cent increase in their budgets for hospitals and other services each year for three years," said Mr. MacIsaac.

"We have been able to accomplish a great deal in health care in the last five years. The challenge we face is there are more demands for services than the province can meet with the current level of funding from the federal government," said Mr. MacIsaac. "A long-term commitment to sustainable funding from the federal government would allow us to address the funding recommendations."

The Value for Money assessments were conducted in the two districts from October 2003 to December 2003. The final report is posted on the department's website at www.gov.ns.ca/health under reports.