Some administrative restructuring has hit the Saskatchewan Health Authority, as they recently announced dozens of cuts in senior and leadership positions, with around 26 senior positions being cut. From that, the province says it's freed up $10.4 million, which it will be using towards positions in remote and rural areas.
According to their release, that will include "27 new and 20 enhanced Clinical Manager positions in 45 rural and northern communities, and the introduction of a new model for senior physician leadership."
Health Minister Jeremy Cockrill voiced his approval of the changes, saying that they work to improve health care delivery in more remote areas.
"I commend the Saskatchewan Health Authority for this review and the well-considered steps to better use resources, strengthen local leadership, and provide stronger support to health teams and communities. These changes are an important part of the province’s work to build a more efficient and integrated health system—one that puts patients first and ensures our health-care professionals have the support they need to deliver the best possible care."
Of the $10.4 million put forward, $6.2 million will be put towards patient care priorities, while the other $4.2 million will be reinvested in local clinical leadership for rural and northern communities. With the $4.2 million invested in staffing, the SHA plans to introduce 27 new and 20 enhanced Clinical Manager positions across 45 rural and northern communities.
They broke those hirings and changes in position further:
- 14 positions for new, full-time on-site Clinical Managers for multi-service facilities
- 9 positions for new, full-time on-site Clinical Managers hired in situations where managers previously oversaw multiple locations
- 4 positions for on-site Clinical Managers based in rural communities to provide oversight of professional practice, education, and resources within designated Health Networks
- 20 communities would see existing part-time roles change to full or near full-time positions