News Releases

News Release - Manitoba

February 5, 2021

Province Provides Over $60 Million to Regional Health Authorities to Offset COVID-Related Costs to Protect Manitobans

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Funding Helps Regions Recoup Expenditures Incurred Because of COVID-19, Continue to Focus on Patients: Stefanson

The Manitoba government has provided more than $60 million to regional health authorities to cover COVID-19-related costs incurred over the first two quarters of 2020-21, Health and Seniors Care Minister Heather Stefanson announced today.

“This funding makes sure our regional health authorities, which deliver front-line services to protect Manitobans, can continue to serve the public to the best of their ability,” said Stefanson. “We remain committed to working with our regional health partners to address the financial challenges posed by the pandemic.”

In the summer, the Manitoba government notified regional health authorities the province would be engaging in a quarterly reimbursement process for expenditures related to COVID-19. Eligible costs would include but are not limited to those related to incremental staffing, enhanced cleaning procedures, and additional supplies and equipment.

Regional health authorities submitted these costs and the province has now provided one-time funding for the first two quarters of 2020-21. Funding will also be provided for the remaining two quarters later this year.

“I would like to thank the regional health authorities for leading the health system through these challenging times,” said Stefanson. “We appreciate their dedication and service, and are pleased to provide this funding to ensure they can continue to operate to the highest standard.”

The province has also provided $7.7 million in funding to personal care homes to offset costs related to COVID-19, as announced Dec. 9, 2020. 

For up-to-date information on COVID-19 in Manitoba, visit www.manitoba.ca/COVID19.  

For up-to-date information on the #RestartMB Pandemic Response System, visit:
https://manitoba.ca/covid19/restartmb/prs/index.html.

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