Although we are coming on to the other side of the COVID pandemic, we are still playing catch-up for oxygen testing.

Something that can help out in this process is requesting an extension of home oxygen funding from SAIL. This can be done if you have scheduled a client for testing and the test will likely be later than the coverage expiration deadline. Requests should be made to EHB@health.gov.sk.ca for the fastest response.

If you, the tester, do not know the renewal deadline but the test date is more than 3 weeks away, then please also notify SAIL. This should only be done for clients who have scheduled an appointment. Testers should send the name, HSN and date of appointment. 

Home oxygen coverage will automatically end if renewal is not received before the deadline. If you have any clients on your waitlists whose coverage has already expired, please still notify SAIL so coverage can be reinstated. The extension period will be calculated from the original deadline not from date of receipt of the notice. 

SAIL recognizes there are backlogs in the system – it is not their intention to penalize patients for that. If an effort has been made to book an appointment we will accommodate an extension. At this time SAIL’s primary concern is identifying which clients were added without testing during the pandemic but who either no longer require the service or do not qualify.

Any questions, please reach out to:

Karol Douglas, Senior Policy Analyst; Drug Plan & Extended Benefits Branch

306-787-7242 -- Karol.Douglas@health.gov.sk.ca