MORE FOREIGN-TRAINED DOCTORS TO PRACTISE IN SASKATCHEWAN

The provincial government is investing $1 million to increase the number of physicians working in the province. This funding is part of the $66 million incremental funding arising from the 2004 First Ministers' Meeting.

Saskatchewan Health and the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Saskatchewan will co-manage this funding, designated to evaluate and provide support for internationally trained physicians, and to help recruit and license them within the province. This means more physicians can be assessed, resulting in more physicians licensed to practise in Saskatchewan.

"Internationally trained physicians have a great deal to offer the people of this province," Health Minister John Nilson said. "Through this funding, we are helping meet the need for physicians in the province -- a key goal of our Action Plan for Saskatchewan Health Care."

"We welcome this initiative," Registrar of the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Saskatchewan Dr. Dennis Kendel said. "This program will improve access to care and help to ensure the quality of care provided to Saskatchewan residents."

Approximately 55 per cent of the 1,700 physicians in Saskatchewan's health system receive all or part of their training outside Canada.

This funding is one of a number of initiatives in place to keep and attract physicians to Saskatchewan. Several others include medical bursaries, rural practice incentives, and immigration fast-tracking.

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For More Information, Contact:

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

Dr. Dennis Kendel College of Physicians and Surgeons of Saskatchewan Saskatoon Phone: (306) 244-7355