Chicoutimi Hospital Faces $33.2M in Required cuts, Unions Sound Alarm
Chicoutimi, QC – The Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean Integrated University Health and Social Services Center (CIUSSS) is facing a mandated $33.2 million in cuts for the current financial year, according to a recent report from Santé Québec. The directive has sparked concern from unions who fear the austerity measures will impact patient care.
The required savings,revealed in Santé Québec’s annual management report as of November 30,2024,come as the CIUSSS already strives to manage its finances. Mélissa Bradette,spokesperson for the CIUSSS,confirmed the target and stated the institution is “in action at the moment to see what can be done,” while aiming to avoid impacts to services. “If we base ourselves on the latest annual report from Santé Québec, our target for our region for our establishment is $33.2 million, so we are in action at the moment to see what can be done,” Bradette said.
The CIUSSS, responsible for healthcare and social services across the saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean region, reported a deficit of $33.2 million in its 2024-2025 financial year. Bradette emphasized the CIUSSS intends to review its operational procedures and explore best practices from other regions, with support from Santé Québec, to achieve the necessary reductions. The organization aims to find efficiencies without compromising care for the population.
