The Government of Saskatchewan has committed to invest another $18.4 million annually to provide 112 new education and training opportunities for health professionals. An additional $2.4 million will be invested immediately to cover one-time capital costs.

Officials with the Sun Country Regional Health Authority (SCRHA) are very happy to hear that Saskatchewan government's announcement of a significant increase in the number of education seats in the province for health care professionals.

"This is one of many steps being taken to solve our supply crisis in nursing and other health care professions," said Cal Tant, President and Chief Executive Officer of SCRHA.

"Filling vacant jobs is a major concern for health regions in Canada, particularly in rural areas. As the baby boomers retire, demand will keep rising over the next few years. One of the long-term solutions is to increase the number of students," said Tant.

Upon full implementation, $13.1 million will be provided annually to increase the number of training opportunities for physicians by 16. In addition, $5.3 million will be provided to boost opportunities for nursing and medical diagnostic professionals by 96.

"Having an adequate number of health training seats is a key factor in the retention and recruitment of health professionals," Health Minister Len Taylor said. "We can thank Saskatchewan's vibrant economy for allowing us to make this investment today."

The investment is part of the Government of Saskatchewan's effort to establish a number of long-term sustainable strategies to address labour market issues in the health sector and ultimately to ensure that there is an adequate number of health providers to meet the needs of Saskatchewan residents. Other initiatives focus on recruitment and retention of these valuable members of the health care team.

Marga Cugnet, Vice President of Primary and Integrated Health for SCRHA, also applauds the province's decision to increase the number of students. "This is a recognition both of current and future needs for health professionals."

"This initiative hits home in our region because we have had to reduce services in some of our facilities due to a shortage of nurses," said Cugnet.