Monique Vielfaure Mackenzie
 
A deficit is being projected for the year end as the Regional Health Authority enters the second half of it's fiscal year.  South Eastman Health Chief Executive Officer Monique Vielfaure Mackenzie reports back in June the board approved some hot spot funding for nursing positions in Steinbach and Ste Anne emergency rooms.  There has also been some growth challenges which have driven up costs for lab and diagnostic services. 

Combined, these areas are projected to create a shortfall of $420,000.  She notes if it weren't for these hotspots and increased volumes they would be on track to end the year with a balanced budget.

Vielfaure Mackenzie says as always it is another growth related concern.  They are seeing volume increases in many of the programs and services offered by the RHA and it's linked to the population growth in our region and more people showing up at the door for services.

She notes there was no hot spot funding included in the current year's budget because there was no 'wiggle room' due to the lower funding increase from the Province.  At this point Vielfaure Mackenzie feels the board is trying to hold the line on expenses and stay with what they have. 

In January, her team will be presenting hot spot concerns to the board for consideration in next year's budget.