The province is giving an update on its human health resource action plan (HHR) with two new specialists coming to two large cities.
Saskatchewan announced that two new perfusionists will be hired provincially - one being based in Regina and the other being based in Saskatoon.
Perfusionists are high-demand roles that work with a hospital's operating room team. During surgery they're in charge of maintaining a patient's respiration, circulation, and physiological state, using equipment to keep people safe during a surgery.
“I am pleased by ongoing progress in attracting specialized skillsets including perfusionists in a highly competitive national job market,” said Health Minister Everett Hindley. “By investing in our healthcare workforce and attracting these highly sought professionals, we are addressing current needs, and preparing for future healthcare delivery. This plan reflects our commitment to supporting Saskatchewan’s health professionals and enhancing the care provided to all residents.”
The province also announced that 83 communities across the province have taken advantage of the Rural and Remote Recruitment Incentive (RRRI) and Internationally Educated Nurse (IEN) initiatives.
They count 345 hard-to-recruit positions which have been filled as a result of the RRRI paying up to $50,000 over three years.
Additionally, 316 IEN recruits have either completed or enrolled in the 14-week Transition to Registered Nursing in Canada (TRNC) program. Of those, 266 IENs have started working in 83 communities across the province.
“Attracting new health care professionals to work in rural and northern locations across the province helps bring health care closer to home for patients,” said Rural and Remote Health Minister Tim McLeod. “These HHR initiatives also provide opportunities for professionals to experience living in our welcoming and vibrant Saskatchewan communities and enjoying a high quality of life and a lower cost of living.”