Ahead of the official start of the election campaign, we asked our readers what the most important issues were facing the province. Over 70 per cent of respondents in the poll said healthcare was the biggest issue facing Saskatchewan.
As part of the campaign, each political party releases the platform of what they will do if they form government. This is what each party has said, so far, when it comes to healthcare.
Saskatchewan Party
So far, the Saskatchewan Party has not announced anything in terms of healthcare as part of their platform. However, that will likely change as we get closer to October 28th, and this will be updated to reflect any announcements that they make.
NDP
The NDP has announced if they form government, they will invest $1.1 billion into healthcare, including the creation of a Nursing Task Force. The plans unveiled by the NDP also call for the hiring of more permanent doctors and nurses to reduce the reliance on out-of-province contractors. There is also a commitment to increase surgery capacity and diagnostic scan capacity.
Sask United
The Sask United Party is proposing allowing non-government clinics to build facilities and provide services while remaining publicly funded through government contracts. As well, they would open more medical school seats and residency spots. They would also look to streamline the bureaucracy. They also propose offering retention bonuses for healthcare professionals who stay and work in Saskatchewan.
Progressive Conservative
The Progressive Conservative Party would utilize retired nurses to help fill the void, while also reducing administration costs to redirect that money into beds and front-line workers. They too will increase training spots for health care workers, with a commitment to a percentage of seats to students who were born and raised in Saskatchewan. The PC Party will also look to reassess the salaries of doctors so they get a fixed wage as opposed to billing.
Green Party
The Green Party will, if they form government, reduce the administrative burden in health to help manage costs. They will also examine pharmacare coverage and the provincial formulary so medications are available to all residents. They will also emphasize proactive wellness, such as nutritionists and dietitians, and making sure midwifery is an option for all women. They would also integrate dental care into the health care system. There would also be work to increase access to services across the province.
Buffalo Party
So far, the Buffalo Party has not announced anything in terms of healthcare as part of their platform. However, that will likely change as we get closer to October 28th, and this will be updated to reflect any announcements that they make.