Saskatchewan is making progress when it comes to keeping locally trained doctors in the province.
The retention rate of medical graduates trained at the University of Saskatchewan has jumped by 11 per cent over the past year.
“Physicians that are newly trained in Saskatchewan play a key role in the health care system,” Rural and Remote Health Minister Greg Ottenbreit says. “We want patients right here in Saskatchewan to benefit from their expert training and homegrown leadership.”
The government has focused on creating more residency options for rural areas in Saskatchewan which includes Prince Albert and La Ronge.
“We currently have four graduates who now practice full time in La Ronge after completing their residence,” U of S Associate Dean of Rural and Northern Medicine Dr. Tom Smith-Windsor says. “The studies show health care in communities that are involved in health care education actually improves, so it is important locals support the program and I am appreciative of that.”
The province has seen increased medical training seats in several communities across the province with more planned for the future.
According to the government, the number of doctors in Saskatchewan has risen by nearly 25 per cent since 2007.