Northern Health financial staff has lived within its means thus far in the fiscal year 2010-2011, but that's expected to change by year end on March 31.
By the end of the sixth period in September, revenues exceeded the budget by $9.1 million or 3.3 per cent.
However, increased patient numbers anticipated during winter months coupled with associated increased staff numbers are expected to reduce the small surplus recorded, Mark de Croos, NH chief financial officer, reported Monday during the directors meeting.
Croos explained part of the reason for the surplus is lower than expected patient activity, vacancies and employee benefits in primary health care, some physician vacancies and "favourable spending" on matters like travel, relocation and recruitment.
NH's operating budget this year is $654,228 of which acute care services accounts for the largest slice at $247,071. The cost of physicians accounts for $48,221 in the budget.
