The Saskatchewan Health Authority (SHA) sent a statement regarding the frequent closure of the Radville Marian Health Centre ER due to a physician shortage. There have been six closures since December when it was announced that a Virtual Physician Program would be implemented in the community to mitigate closures.
The statement begins stating every jurisdiction in Canada is seeing an increased demand for healthcare services.
“The Government of Saskatchewan, Saskatchewan Health Authority (SHA), and Saskatchewan Health Recruitment Agency are taking action to stabilize and strengthen health care services in rural Saskatchewan. The SHA understands that residents of rural communities are concerned when the health care services are temporarily disrupted due to staffing challenges. We are committed to restoring health care services in communities that are experiencing temporary service disruptions due to staffing challenges as soon as possible.”
It continues to explain the Virtual Physician program is impacted by nursing shortages, as it requires on-site nursing support. When that is unavailable, there will be temporary disruptions to emergency services.
“The SHA is working to ensure all SHA nursing staff in communities with the Virtual Physician program are receiving the appropriate training to limit temporary service disruptions.”