RETENTION GRANTS AIM TO KEEP HEALTH WORKERS IN SASKATCHEWAN

More Saskatchewan health care workers can look forward to improved workplaces, reduced burnout and more professional development opportunities, thanks to a series of new projects funded by retention grants offered by the provincial government.

Health Minister Don McMorris has announced $718,000 in funding for 12 innovative projects - recommended by health professionals - that will benefit a wide range of workers throughout the province. This funding is part of the $6 million Health Workforce Employee Retention Program, which supports creative, grassroots initiatives designed to help keep health employees working in Saskatchewan's health care system. Two additional projects announced today were approved in 2007 pending additional information.

"Keeping and attracting key health providers is a top priority of this government," McMorris said. "I am pleased with the enthusiastic response to the third round of retention grants. We know the best retention initiatives often come from health care providers themselves, and we want to benefit from that knowledge by giving employees more opportunities to improve their workplaces."

Examples of funded projects include installing a ceiling-suspended equipment system in the endoscopy units at the Regina General and Pasqua Hospitals, thereby reducing risk of employee injury caused by cramped workspace; and developing advanced training in cognitive behaviour therapy for mental health and addictions workers in the Five Hills Health Region in order to provide better client care. A detailed list of approved projects is attached.

Projects can be initiated by health employees and other providers, employers, and provincial health sector organizations. Details on the program are posted on the Saskatchewan Health website at www.health.gov.sk.ca.

Funding for the retention program flows from the $25 million retention and recruitment plan previously announced. The Saskatchewan Party government has identified recruitment and retention of health care workers as a priority. Legislative Secretary to the Minister of Health - Nurse Recruitment and Retention Laura Ross accompanied by health region staff are currently in the Philippines to attract approximately 300 nurses to the province. As well, Saskatchewan Union of Nurses (SUN) and McMorris signed a partnership agreement last week committing to work together to solve Saskatchewan's shortage of Registered Nurses and Registered Psychiatric Nurses.

-30-

For more information, contact:

Andrew Dinsmore
Health
Regina
Phone: 306-787-4083
Email: adinsmore@health.gov.sk.ca