Health Minister Don McMorris recently announced the appointment of board members for Saskatchewan's 12 regional health authorities.

"We continue to make meaningful transformational changes in the health system to put patients first," McMorris said. "Regional health authority board members are integral to making that change happen. As I announce the appointment of 116 board members, I am pleased to say that 83 of them are being reappointed, which will enable continuity and continued progress toward our goal of more patient- and family-centred care."

Sixty-six of the appointees are men and 50 are women, with 16 people also self-identifying as First Nations or Métis.

Board members are responsible for overseeing the organization, management and delivery of health services for all residents in their health regions, primarily through the CEO of the health region. Board members are accountable to the Minister of Health.

Many of those being reappointed are among the first graduates of the Health Director Education and Certification Program through the University of Regina's Johnson/Shoyama Graduate School of Public Policy. The comprehensive education program was developed in consultation with the Ministry of Health to provide extensive education and skill development to help inform board members' decisions.

"I want to also thank former board members for their years of service to the people of Saskatchewan," McMorris said.

Local residents who have been appointed to the Sun Country Health Region board are Marilyn Charlton (Chair) of Weyburn, Derrell Rodine of Goodwater, Karen Stephenson of Weyburn and Audrey Trombley of Midale.

All of the appointments are for three-year terms, with the possibility of reappointment.