Physicians highly involved in new health authority

Saskatchewan physicians will play significant roles on the new Saskatchewan Health Authority (SHA). Five physicians, who are all also on the College of Medicine faculty, have roles on the SHA’s executive leadership team, following an open competition process. They are:

• Dr. Susan Shaw, in the Department of Anesthesiology, is the SHA’s chief medical officer (CMO)
• Dr. Mark Wahba, in the Department of Emergency Medicine, is a physician executive for integrated urban health
• Dr. Kevin Wasko, in the Department of Family Medicine, is a physician executive for integrated rural health
• Dr. Stephanie Young, in the Department of Family Medicine, is a physician executive for integrated northern health
• Dr. Paul Babyn, in the Department of Medical Imaging, is a physician executive for provincial programs

“The involvement of these physicians, all on our college’s faculty, is a great start to integrating the academic and research mission of the college and our province’s health system more effectively,” said Dr. Preston Smith, dean, College of Medicine.

Additionally, Smith is on the board of the SHA, as is North Battleford physician and CoM alumna, Dr. Janet Tootoosis.

“Having our college integrated with and actively engaged in the health system ultimately means better care for Saskatchewan people,” he added. “Why? Because our students and residents will benefit from a better learning experience and environment, making them better physicians. While training here, they not only become better physicians for our province, they are also more likely to stay and practice here—it’s a win-win for the health system and for patients.

“As well, the opportunities and benefits of academic research can be brought more to the forefront of patient care when the college and health system collaborate effectively.”

Current SHA information and updates, including the leadership structure, can be found on the SHA website.