Terminally Ill Patient Advocates for Free Hospital Parking in Saskatchewan

A terminally ill cancer patient is advocating for free hospital parking across Saskatchewan, highlighting the financial burden of parking fees on patients undergoing long-term care. Dennis Ogrodnick, a former teacher and city councillor from Prince Albert, has been vocal about the challenges faced by patients who need to access medical services frequently.

In Saskatchewan, parking fees vary significantly between hospitals. At facilities in Saskatoon, hourly parking costs $3, daily parking is $12, and a full month amounts to $120. In Regina, hourly parking is slightly less at $2, while daily and monthly rates mirror those in Saskatoon. Ogrodnick argues that these costs are an unnecessary and cruel burden for patients already facing serious health challenges.

Ogrodnick shared his concerns publicly on March 5, 2024, stating, “I should be fighting my cancer with all my energy, but I have to fight my government, unfortunately.” He emphasized that the issue of paid parking has become a pressing concern not just for himself, but for many patients and their families who have approached him for support.

The former city councillor believes that if the Saskatchewan Health Authority (SHA) aims to implement a fair and consistent policy, no patient should have to pay for parking. He has taken it upon himself to lead the charge against the current paid parking system, seeking to alleviate the financial strain on those in vulnerable health situations.

In response to Ogrodnick’s advocacy, the SHA provided a statement to Global News outlining its rationale for parking fees. The SHA emphasized its commitment to delivering safe, quality care to the people of Saskatchewan. According to their statement, parking fees are used to cover the costs associated with maintaining parking facilities, enabling the organization to allocate more resources to frontline healthcare.

The SHA acknowledged the discrepancies in parking fees across the province, attributing them to the varied practices of previous regional health authorities. As Ogrodnick continues his fight for change, the issue of hospital parking fees remains a significant concern for many in Saskatchewan, prompting discussions about the accessibility of healthcare services in the province.

As this situation unfolds, Ogrodnick’s battle against paid parking highlights the broader challenges patients face while navigating the healthcare system. His determination serves as a reminder of the need for policies that prioritize patient welfare, ensuring that those undergoing treatment can focus on their health without the added stress of financial burdens.