Physicians in the province have resoundingly ratified a new four-year contract with the Government of Saskatchewan.
Health Minister Everett Hindley and SMA President Dr. Annette Epp jointly announced the groundbreaking agreement, boasting an impressive 93 per cent approval from physicians. The contract encompasses a substantial boost of approximately $245 million in ongoing funding, focusing on competitive compensation, recruitment, and retention initiatives. Notable features include a new primary care payment model for family physicians, fostering an increased emphasis on preventive care and complex patient issues. An innovation fund of up to $10 million annually aims to enhance team-based care in primary health settings.
The contract also addresses gender pay inequity, introduces a Rural and Northern Practice Recognition Premium, and establishes permanent virtual care codes for efficient patient services.