A labour market shortage in lab and x-ray technologists in Saskatchewan may be short-lived due to steps from the provincial government and Saskatchewan Polytechnic.

The government announced on Tuesday that the post-secondary school will be doubling the number of seats for its Combined Laboratory and X-Ray Technologists program by adding 20 students starting early 2021.

The government added that it’s part of a larger strategy to employ more technologists across the province and improve rural health care delivery.

“Combined Laboratory and X-Ray Technologists provide key medical diagnostic services including medical laboratory and x-ray procedures, and are an integral part of a health care team,” stated Rural and Remote Health Minister and Minister Responsible for Seniors Warren Kaeding in a media release. “They are especially important in the rural areas where they can use their full scope of skills in providing x-ray and laboratory services.”

On Monday, NDP Health Critic Vicki Mowat said the government has failed to address staffing issues in hiring lab technicians. She noted that the Saskatchewan Health Authority has been actively trying to hire for multiple positions for years.

The two-year program is offered at the Saskatchewan Polytechnic Saskatoon Campus. Students finish their clinical practicum placement at approved sites across the province.