Cancer Patient Advocates for Free Hospital Parking in Saskatchewan

In Saskatchewan, the rising costs of hospital parking have become a significant concern for patients requiring long-term care. Dennis Ogrodnick, a terminally ill cancer patient from Prince Albert, is leading the charge for free parking at hospitals across the province. His fight highlights the financial burden that parking fees impose on patients undergoing treatment.

Parking fees vary across Saskatchewan’s hospitals. In Saskatoon, hourly parking costs $3, daily parking is $12, and a full month’s parking totals $120. Meanwhile, in Regina, patients face hourly rates of $2, with daily and monthly parking fees remaining consistent at $12 and $120, respectively. These costs can add up quickly for individuals attending frequent appointments or treatments.

Ogrodnick expressed his frustration during a recent interview, stating that having to pay for parking while battling cancer is “cruel and mean-spirited.” He believes that patients should focus their energy on fighting their illness rather than dealing with financial burdens imposed by the healthcare system. “I should be fighting my cancer with all my energy, but I have to fight my government, unfortunately,” Ogrodnick remarked.

This advocacy is not solely his endeavor; several patients and friends have approached Ogrodnick, urging him to take action against the fees. He firmly argues that if the Saskatchewan Health Authority (SHA) aims to establish a fair and consistent policy, then no patient should have to pay for hospital parking.

In response to Ogrodnick’s concerns, the Saskatchewan Health Authority issued a statement to Global News. The SHA emphasized its commitment to providing safe and quality care for the residents of Saskatchewan. According to the statement, parking fees are essential for covering the costs associated with parking facilities, allowing more resources to be directed toward frontline healthcare. “The SHA acknowledges there are differences in parking fees province-wide, driven in part by the varied practices of the former regional health authorities,” the statement noted.

The issue of hospital parking fees has sparked a broader conversation about the accessibility of healthcare in Saskatchewan. Advocates like Ogrodnick are calling for reforms that would alleviate the financial strain on patients during an already challenging time. As Ogrodnick continues his fight for change, many others in similar situations hope for a future where they can focus solely on their recovery, free from the added stress of parking costs.

The need for change resonates with many in the community, prompting discussions about potential solutions and the importance of ensuring equitable access to healthcare resources. As Ogrodnick’s story gains traction, it is clear that the issue of hospital parking fees will remain a significant topic within Saskatchewan’s healthcare discourse.