Another large step forward has been made in the transition from the 12 health regions into one provincial unit.

A board of directors has now been chosen to oversee the future Saskatchewan Health Authority, selected from a variety of different backgrounds and positions in order to create a diverse and well rounded table of experience.

"I think it's really important for the system as a whole to identify a new board for the new organization. We know that it's not coming into effect yet, so the fact that some people have been picked out now to begin preparing themselves for taking over is a good approach," said John Knoch, the Acting CEO of the Sun Country Health Region.

"It certainly gives them time to learn and become orientated towards some of the issues that the system is facing today."

He shared that the regional board will, in the meantime, remain focused on caring for their patients and preparing for the transition.

"In addition to that, our board has approved a budget for 2017 and 2018, and they are very particular about ensuring that we remain within that."

"There's a lot of work ahead in the system. Our managers and some of our front-line staff are involved in other aspects of the adjustment and change, and we're working at this together.

"We look forward to a system that will be more integrated than we are now, and will continue to serve our patients residents and clients as effectively as possible," Knoch concluded.