Saskatchewan physicians have ratified a new four-year contract with the province, and a news release from the government states that 93 per cent of doctors who cast ballots voted in favour.
The agreement includes the introduction of a new primary care payment model for family physicians which means there will be more time to deal with complex patient issues. It means a base payment for standard services and additional fee-for-service payments for extra services provided for patients with more complex issues. Other highlights include an overall average raise of 2.5 per cent over four years as of April 1st of 2022, a competitive market rate adjustment for the first year of the agreement, and increased funding to support long term retention, parental leave and continuing medical education.
Saskatchewan Media Association President, Dr. Annette Epps says their goal was to reach an agreement that recognizes the critical role doctors play in the health care system and provide the support they need to deliver high quality, accessible patient care.
Compensation, Benefits, Recruitment and Retention
- An overall average general rate increase of 2.5% per year over four years (April 1, 2022 to March 31, 2026).
- A competitive market rate adjustment applied to the first year of the agreement.
- Increased funding to support long term retention, parental leave and continuing medical education.
New Targeted Investments
- Introduction of a new primary care payment model for family physicians that unifies existing volume-based pay with a new capitation payment (based on patient contacts and panel size), allowing more time to deal with complex patient issues and an increased focus on preventive care. This investment of more than $50 million in annual funding is expected to stabilize and begin a transformation of primary care in Saskatchewan.
- An innovation fund of up to $10 million annually over the duration of the agreement, that will increase the amount of team-based care in primary health care settings, resulting in health care providers working to the top of their scope and improving access to primary care in the province.
- Funding to address gender pay inequity in physician fee codes, as well as new funding to support physician training and awareness related to equity, diversity, racism, and truth and reconciliation.
- A new Rural and Northern Practice Recognition Premium that recognizes the unique nature and critical importance of rural medicine.
- Introduction of permanent virtual care codes to increase efficient access to health services for patients and reduce unnecessary travel for appropriate services.
