Sask. to introduce expanded roles for pharmacists, nurse practitioners and paramedics
Global News
The Saskatchewan government is looking at ways to increase patient access to a variety of health-care services, including ones that could mean new duties for health-care workers.
As Saskatchewan battles a depleted health care system, some health professionals may be getting expanded roles.
According to a media release Thursday, the provincial government is looking at ways to increase patient access to a variety of health-care services.
“In the coming days, the Ministry of Health will begin consultations with a variety of stakeholders on enhancing the scope of practice for pharmacists, nurse practitioners and advanced care paramedics,” the province said in a press release.
Pharmacists, nurse practitioners and advanced care paramedics are currently restricted from using all of their learned skills.
“A lot of these positions are not at the maximum of their scope as in other provinces,” said Health Minister Paul Merriman.
He said that as of Feb. 2, the three groups mentioned will be the focus for the time being, since changes can be made quickly.
Some examples of expanded duties could include:
“How can we get these highly skilled individuals to help out in primary care and also in our emergency rooms?” Merriman said of the reasoning behind the change, ”as well as making sure that people are getting treated in a very short amount of time.”