Cancer Patient Advocates for Free Hospital Parking in Saskatchewan

Residents of Saskatchewan face significant financial burdens when it comes to long-term hospital care, particularly due to parking fees. In Saskatoon, hourly parking costs $3, daily parking is $12, and monthly passes are priced at $120. In Regina, the rates are slightly lower, with hourly parking at $2, daily parking still at $12, and monthly parking also costing $120.

On October 3, 2023, Dennis Ogrodnick, a terminally ill cancer patient from Prince Albert, publicly expressed his frustrations regarding these fees. Having spent countless hours in hospitals for treatment, Ogrodnick describes the necessity to pay for parking as “cruel and mean-spirited.” He emphasized that his energy should be devoted to battling cancer, not fighting against his government for fair treatment.

Ogrodnick, a former teacher and city councillor, revealed that he was approached by several patients and friends who encouraged him to take action against the paid parking system in Saskatchewan’s hospitals. He argues that if the Saskatchewan Health Authority (SHA) aims to implement a fair and consistent policy, then no patient should be burdened with parking fees while seeking essential healthcare services.

In response to Ogrodnick’s concerns, the SHA provided a statement to Global News regarding the issue of hospital parking. The statement read, in part, “The Saskatchewan Health Authority is focused on providing safe, quality care to the people of Saskatchewan. The SHA uses parking fees to cover costs associated with parking facilities in order to direct more resources toward frontline healthcare.” Additionally, the SHA acknowledged the discrepancies in parking fees across the province, which are influenced by the varying practices of former regional health authorities.

Ogrodnick’s plight highlights a growing issue faced by many patients across Saskatchewan. The financial strain of parking fees adds to the already overwhelming challenges of managing a serious illness. As he continues to advocate for change, the discussion surrounding hospital parking fees is likely to gain momentum in the coming weeks.

For further insights into Ogrodnick’s story and his ongoing campaign against the paid parking system, viewers can watch the full video coverage available through local news outlets.