CONSULTANT SAYS IMPROVED COMMUNICATIONS NEEDED IN LA LOCHE DOCTORS DISPUTE

Saskatchewan Health publicly released the administrative review of the termination of a contract between the Keewatin Yatthe Regional Health Authority and La Loche physicians today.

In June 2004, the health region invoked an opt-out clause in its contract with the physicians serving La Loche. While one physician in the group subsequently signed a new agreement, the others ceased practice December 6th, 2004. The Saskatchewan Medical Association (SMA) subsequently called upon the Minister to review the matter while northern leaders asked the Minister to investigate the SMA's involvement in the situation. In January 2005, Saskatchewan Health undertook an administrative review to determine the facts and analyze the process around the contract termination.

"Saskatchewan Health accepts, and will act on, the findings that are within the department's control in future dealings with health regions and doctors," Assistant Deputy Health Minister Lawrence Krahn said. "We trust that the other parties named in the report will closely examine and act upon the findings and advice that pertain to them."

The health region board told the consultant it had to respond to the La Loche community's dissatisfaction with members of the physician group by terminating the contract. The consultant identified a number of areas for improvement and provided suggestions for all parties involved in the dispute. He described a need for strengthened contract management by the health region and better communications with the physicians, a need for earlier awareness and assistance by Saskatchewan Health and a need for the SMA to better balance its role as an advocate for physicians and a partner with government in provision of health services.

The consultant noted that better clarity is needed around termination provisions in future contracts between physicians and health regions.

"As we move forward with advancing primary health care access, particularly in rural and remote areas of the province, we need to learn from the situation in La Loche," Krahn said. "We are committed to ensuring the best quality health care and access to physician services for all Saskatchewan residents."

Most Saskatchewan physicians are paid on a fee-for-service basis for the health services they provide. Under primary health care models, physicians provide medical services on a contract.

Please note: Copies of the advice attached
Full copy of the report available at http://www.health.gov.sk.ca/mc_dp_laloche.pdf

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For More Information, Contact:

Jocelyn Argue Health Regina Phone: (306)787-4083 Cell: (306)537-3593