Sask. looks to open primary care clinics run by nurse practitioners [Video]

In response to concerns about the nursing shortage in Saskatchewan, the provincial government has announced a new initiative to boost the role of nurse practitioners.

According to the provincial government, a key aspect of the plan is to pilot a new model for independently operated, publicly funded nurse practitioner clinics.

These clinics will act as an additional avenue for patients to receive primary care services.

“Access to primary health care is a high priority for our government,” Premier Scott Moe said in a release issued Thursday.

“By creating more opportunities for nurse practitioners throughout the health care system, we can improve access to primary health care services for Saskatchewan patients and their families.”

When it comes to healthcare access in rural, regional, and northern communities, the provincial government said 25 new nurse practitioner positions will be created over the next year under the Saskatchewan Health Authority (SHA).

According to the province, the Ministry of Health will collaborate with the …