Cancer Patient Advocates for Free Hospital Parking in Saskatchewan

Long-term hospital care in Saskatchewan often incurs high costs, particularly when it comes to parking fees. In Saskatoon, patients face parking rates of $3 per hour and $12 for daily parking, while monthly parking totals $120. Regina offers slightly lower hourly rates at $2, but daily and monthly fees remain the same as in Saskatoon.

Dennis Ogrodnick, a terminally ill cancer patient from Prince Albert, has taken a stand against these mounting costs. He recently expressed his frustrations regarding parking fees during a public discussion, declaring that the requirement to pay for parking while undergoing cancer treatment is “cruel and mean-spirited.” Ogrodnick stated, “I should be fighting my cancer with all my energy, but I have to fight my government, unfortunately.”

Ogrodnick, a former teacher and city councillor, shared that numerous patients and friends have urged him to lead the movement against paid parking in Saskatchewan hospitals. He argues that the Saskatchewan Health Authority (SHA) should implement a fair and consistent policy that eliminates parking fees for patients receiving treatment.

In response to Ogrodnick’s advocacy, the Saskatchewan Health Authority provided a statement to Global News addressing the issue of hospital parking fees. The SHA emphasized its commitment to delivering safe, quality care to residents of Saskatchewan. According to the statement, “The Saskatchewan Health Authority (SHA) uses parking fees to cover costs associated with parking facilities in order to direct more resources toward front line healthcare.”

Furthermore, the SHA acknowledged the discrepancies in parking fees across the province, which they attribute to the varied practices of former regional health authorities.

Ogrodnick’s campaign highlights a growing concern among patients and advocates regarding the financial burdens of healthcare. As he continues to fight against cancer, he remains determined to advocate for those who share similar challenges.

For more insights into Ogrodnick’s story and his efforts to combat paid parking in Saskatchewan’s hospitals, additional coverage is available through local news channels.