PHYSICIANS RATIFY NEW FOUR-YEAR AGREEMENT

The Saskatchewan government is pleased that the province's physicians have voted overwhelmingly in favour of a new four-year contract agreement.

"I am very pleased that we have reached a deal with the Saskatchewan Medical Association which meets our objective of providing fair and competitive compensation - a key element of our physician recruitment strategy," Health Minister Don McMorris said. "I believe this agreement is good for our physicians, it's good for our health care system and it's good for Saskatchewan residents."

The agreement includes an 11 per cent increase in fees paid for physician services, along with a two per cent market adjustment. The agreement also includes $33 million in special programs that reward physicians choosing to adopt a full-scope of practice, rewarding rural practise, patient-focused care, chronic disease management and improved after-hours access.

"We look forward to continued collaboration with physicians over the next few years to provide the best possible care for Saskatchewan residents," McMorris said.

The current contract covers the period from April 1, 2009 to March 31, 2013.

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For more information, contact:

Tyler McMurchy
Health
Regina
Phone: 306-787-4083