The Saskatchewan Health Authority (SHA) Board of Directors has approved the 2026-27 budget at $5.59 billion operating budget for the upcoming fiscal year, marking a 5.05 per cent increase over last year.
The plan includes nearly $597 million in capital spending, aimed at improving facilities and equipment across the province.
SHA Board Chair Arlene Wiks says the investment is focused on ensuring residents have access to high-quality care no matter where they live. The budget also emphasizes supporting frontline staff with the tools they need to meet patient demand.
SHA CEO Andrew Will adds the funding will help expand key services and advance priorities under the organization’s roadmap, including improving access to care and increasing surgical and diagnostic capacity.
Expanding access to care
The budget includes investments to patient access, particularly in major centres, inclduing:
- $24.2 million for a 109-bed expansion at Saskatoon City Hospital
- $14.6 million for additional beds at Royal University Hospital
- $9.9 million for the Saskatoon Urgent Care Centre
- $2.5 million for Regina General Hospital’s neonatal ICU
There’s also funding to increase MRI and CT scan capacity, expand mental health and addictions services, and enhance continuing care across the province.
Focus on quality and coordination
Funding will go toward improving care standards and patient navigation, including investments in clinical pathways and centralized intake systems for mental health services.
Infrastructure investments
The capital plan highlights significant upgrades and new builds, including:
- $238.4 million for Prince Albert Victoria Hospital
- $100 million for specialized long-term care beds in Regina
- $24.3 million for long-term care in Grenfell
- $22.1 million for long-term care in La Ronge
Officials say the combined operating and capital investments are designed to strengthen Saskatchewan’s health system, improve access and modernize facilities as demand continues to grow across the province.
