Saskatchewan's Physician Innovation Fund: A Step Forward in Team-Based Care

The Government of Saskatchewan and the Saskatchewan Medical Association (SMA) have made a significant investment in improving patient access to high-quality, team-based primary care through the 10 million annual Physician Innovation Fund. Launched in August 2024, this initiative aims to support family physician-led, team-based health care clinics in communities across the province. The fund has been allocated to 28 approved projects, creating more than 56 full-time equivalent positions and providing training and development opportunities for physicians and clinical staff.

Key Takeaways:

• The Physician Innovation Fund invests 10 million annually to support family physician-led, team-based health care clinics in communities across Saskatchewan.
• The fund has been allocated to 28 approved projects, covering ongoing expenses and one-time expenses such as medical equipment and clinic renovations.
• The funding has created more than 56 full-time equivalent positions, including nurses, nurse practitioners, social workers, and other clinical staff.
• The fund recognizes the leadership role of physicians within primary care teams by supporting training and development opportunities.
• The Implementation Support Team at the SMA works closely with clinics to advance their projects, and leadership development opportunities are ongoing for all Saskatchewan primary care clinics.
• The fund aims to improve patient care and access, support physician work-life balance, and strengthen collaboration between the Saskatchewan Health Authority and successful applicants.

Statistics:

• The Physician Innovation Fund invests 10 million annually to support family physician-led, team-based health care clinics.
• 28 approved projects have been allocated funding to date.
• The funding has created more than 56 full-time equivalent positions.
• The Implementation Support Team at the SMA works closely with clinics to advance their projects.

Sources:

• "Government of Saskatchewan and Saskatchewan Medical Association Launch Physician Innovation Fund" (Saskatchewan.ca, August 2024)
• Interview with Jeremy Cockrill, Health Minister (October 2025)
• Interview with Pamela Arnold, SMA president (October 2025)
• Saskatchewan Medical Association, "Physician Innovation Fund" (Saskatchewan.ca, October 2025)
• Saskatchewan Health Authority, "Team-Based Care" (Saskatchewan.ca, October 2025)