Doctor Shortage Hits Small Saskatchewan Communities
Small towns in Saskatchewan are facing a crisis as they struggle to keep family doctors in their communities. Suzanne Kuchinka, mayor of Macoun, says that family doctors either retire or move elsewhere, leaving residents without access to essential healthcare. In Lloydminster, Mayor Gerald Aalbers highlights roadblocks that prevent doctors from working in his community.
Report Reveals Healthcare Woes
A recent report by the Saskatchewan population health and evaluation research unit at the University of Regina paints a grim picture of rural healthcare in the province. The report cites 533 service disruptions in rural areas due to staffing shortages between August 2019 and July 2023. These disruptions include temporary hospital closures and reduced hours, forcing patients to travel further for care.
Internationally Trained Doctors Leaving
According to the report, 49% of doctors in Saskatchewan in 2022 were internationally trained, and many of them leave rural communities. Kuchinka believes that financial incentives alone are not enough to retain these doctors. She suggests that the province encourages medical students to work in rural areas by offering tuition relief.
Low Morale and Staffing Issues
The report also found low morale among healthcare workers in rural areas. Recruitment Saskatchewan has been hiring more contract nurses from out of province to fill positions, creating pay disparities and scheduling conflicts with union nurses.
Government Response
The Saskatchewan government has implemented measures to address the healthcare shortage, such as expanding training seats at post-secondary schools and providing bonuses to healthcare professionals who move to smaller communities. However, challenges remain, including concerns about the amalgamation of health regions, lack of rural transportation, and reliance on temporary solutions that may not provide long-term stability.
