FAQs

Why was a medical leadership structure introduced?
Greater physician integration is a priority within the Saskatchewan Health Authority (SHA). A medical leadership structure will ensure that physicians play an active role in the design, implementation and operation of a health system that is more integrated, efficient and patient-centred.

How has the medical leadership structure evolved over the past year?
To date, the medical leadership structure includes:

• Physician Executives on the Executive Leadership Team
• A Chief Medical Officer (also on the Exeuctive Leadership Team)
• A Deputy Chief Medical Officer
• Area Chiefs of Staff
• Provincial Heads
• A Senior Medical Health Officer (MHO)
• MHO Area Leads
• MHO Medical Directors

Learn more about these physician leadership positions.

What is a dyad model?
In a health care organizational dyad model, an administrative leader and a physician leader are closely partnered in a shared and complementary decision-making relationship. Many high-performing organizations use this model to better integrate physicians into the leadership and management of the health care organization. Dyads ensure physician and administrative engagement in joint decision-making, shared accountability and ongoing open and transparent communication.

What are the roles and responsibilities of medical leaders?
The roles and responsibilities of medical leaders can be found here.

Is there still an opportunity for me to pursue a medical leadership position?
Yes. Medical leadership positions are posted to HealthCareersInSask.ca and saskdocs.ca. We encourage all those interested in a position to apply.

How will we ensure that the rural voice is heard within the medical leadership structure?
Where it makes sense and is practical, the Area Practitioner Advisory Committee (APAC) can choose to set up a community Medical Advisory Committee (MAC) in communities where there is a need for local approval of policies and discussion of more operational issues than what would be discussed at APAC. These community MACs would be standing subcommittees of the APAC that report to and align with decisions made at APAC and the Provincial Practitioner Advisory Committee (PPAC), as described in the interim Practitioner Staff Bylaws in section 23(1). In other words, each area could have an APAC with a few community MACs reporting to it. This would be another way of giving rural communities a voice.

How can I get more involved?
Reach out to new Medical Leaders in the organization as they are hired into their roles to let them know of your interest. Consider applying for physician leadership positions when they come available. To get involved at the local level, you can also contact your local Regional Medical Association and the Saskatchewan Medical Association.

Who do I contact if I have additional questions?
Contact your Lead Area Chief of Staff to learn more.