The Saskatchewan Population Health and Dynamics Survey is being conducted independently for the province's health districts and is being paid for by Saskatchewan Health. Good, solid information is essential to make sure our health programs are as effective and efficient as they can be for all Saskatchewan people. D'Arcy's group and the University of Regina's Sample Survey Unit led by Pamela Smith will each interview 3,500 Saskatchewan residents. The sample has been scientifically selected to be representative of the province's diverse population, drawing from both rural and urban residents, all age groups and both genders from all parts of the province. To ensure confidentiality, all interviewers are sworn to maintain anonymity and confidentiality.
Interviews are securely stored and only grouped data is reported.
Questions in the survey have been developed in consultation with the health districts and expert advisors. As well, the survey will assess the extent to which informal health care is provided by family members and friends. The population health survey will provide information that will help design accessible, efficient and affordable health policies and programs for Saskatchewan people at the local, regional and provincial level. Preliminary results are to be reported in the fall of 2000.