REGINA - It was announced Wednesday that the province and the Saskatchewan Medical Association have reached a tentative contract agreement.
The agreement, which covers physicians in the province, runs for four years from April 1, 2022 to March 31, 2026, and would still be subject to a ratification vote.
"We are pleased to have reached a tentative agreement for a fair and competitive compensation package that supports our ongoing retention and recruitment efforts," said Health Minister Everett Hindley in a statement. "We value the physicians in our province and appreciate the commitment and dedication they have shown over the past number of years."
The medical profession has faced challenges in the province in recent years, particularly in the areas of recruiting and retaining physicians. In 2022 the province rolled out its four point plan to recruit and retain health care professionals.
In a news release from the SMA, that organization says it is planning virtual information sessions this month to provide information and answer questions on the tentative agreement.
Physicians who are eligible to vote for ratification can attend these sessions. The SMA states the ratification vote will be conducted via a secure online election platform.
“The SMA Board of Directors is recommending that members accept the tentative agreement which addresses priorities raised by physicians during the negotiations," said Dr. Annette Epp in a statement.
The ratification vote closes Feb. 2; details of the agreement will not be released until the ratification process has been completed.
