An audit of some Manitoba health authorities says wage increases for nurses and the rising cost of drugs and supplies have been some of the biggest factors in deficits in recent years.
The audit, by consulting firm Deloitte, was launched last year after the NDP government saw expenses rise sharply in some areas of health care.
The report looked at a period between 2019 and last year when many regional health authorities were running deficits.
The report calls for more transparency around budgeting for the authorities, as well as a stricter examination of projected spending.
Health Minister Uzoma Asagwara accepted the finding and blamed the former Progressive Conservative government for the problems.
Prairie Mountain Health CEO Treena Slate issued the following comment in response to the audit results.
She said in collaboration with the Government of Manitoba, Prairie Mountain Health has been actively working on an extensive review of financial operations. We welcome the release of the findings —consistent with our own financial reporting which highlights over expenditures related to the reliance on contracted agency staff and overtime costs as the main contributors to our deficit position.
Slate added that together, with Manitoba Health, Seniors and Long Term Care, we’ve committed to extensive work on the development of a robust health human resources plan with targeted efforts to reduce reliance on contracted agency services.
The recruitment and retention of healthcare staff is needed to improve health system capacity, reduce waits, optimize patient flow and enhance care experiences.
Additionally, we are closely monitoring spending and implementing cost savings measures throughout our operations. Cost savings actions include finding efficiencies with staff scheduling, supplies, contracts as well as accommodation and building leases.
