Cancer Patient Advocates for Free Hospital Parking in Saskatchewan

Residents in Saskatchewan face significant financial burdens when accessing long-term hospital care, particularly due to parking costs. In Saskatoon, hourly parking fees reach $3, daily rates are set at $12, and monthly parking costs $120. Meanwhile, Regina offers slightly lower hourly rates at $2, but maintains the same daily and monthly fees.

Dennis Ogrodnick, a terminally ill cancer patient from Prince Albert, has voiced his frustration over these parking fees, describing them as “cruel and mean-spirited.” Ogrodnick has spent countless hours at various hospitals for his treatments and believes that the focus should remain on battling his illness rather than on financial stress. “I should be fighting my cancer with all my energy, but I have to fight my government, unfortunately,” he stated.

In response to the growing concerns about hospital parking fees, Ogrodnick, a former teacher and city councillor, has taken on a leadership role in advocating for free parking in Saskatchewan hospitals. He has received support from numerous patients and friends who share similar frustrations regarding the financial implications of hospital visits. Ogrodnick argues that if the Saskatchewan Health Authority (SHA) desires a fair and consistent policy, no patient should be required to pay for parking while seeking medical care.

When asked for a statement regarding Ogrodnick’s advocacy, the SHA provided a response to Global News. The statement emphasized the authority’s commitment to delivering safe, quality care to residents. It explained that parking fees are implemented to cover the costs associated with maintaining parking facilities, thereby allowing more resources to be allocated to frontline healthcare. The SHA also acknowledged the disparities in parking fees across the province, attributing these variations to the differing practices of former regional health authorities.

The ongoing conversation about hospital parking fees highlights a broader issue of accessibility and affordability in healthcare services. As Ogrodnick continues his fight against cancer, his campaign against paid parking seeks to alleviate the financial burdens faced by patients throughout Saskatchewan.

For more on Ogrodnick’s story and his efforts to eliminate parking fees, additional coverage is available in the accompanying video.