Saskatchewan’s increasing reliance on private surgical centres to address growing wait times may inadvertently lead to longer waits for some patients, according to a policy researcher. As the province expands its partnerships with private facilities, concerns are being raised about the potential impact on the public healthcare system and equitable access to care.
The Saskatchewan Health Authority (SHA) is renewing and expanding its partnership with Surgical Centres Inc., which operates facilities in Saskatoon and Regina. This collaboration aims to increase the number of publicly funded surgeries performed in private centres, freeing up capacity in public hospitals for more complex procedures. However, critics argue that prioritizing private facilities could divert resources and expertise from the public system, ultimately exacerbating wait times for those who cannot afford private care.
The SHA reports record-breaking surgical volumes in recent years, with over 95,700 surgeries performed in 2023-24 and surpassing that number with over 100,400 surgeries in 2024-25. Approximately 18 per cent of these core procedures – over 16,700 surgeries – were completed at community partners like Surgical Centres Inc. In 2024-25, according to the SHA news release. The SHA has set a target of 450,000 surgeries by the end of 2028.
Potential for Two-Tiered System
The core concern revolves around the potential for a two-tiered healthcare system, where those with the financial means can access quicker care through private facilities, while others face prolonged waits within the public system. Policy experts suggest that the expansion of private surgical centres could create a drain on resources, including skilled surgeons and nurses, potentially impacting the quality and availability of care in public hospitals. The Saskatchewan Surgicentre, for example, offers private surgery to non-Saskatchewan residents, interventional pain management and care for work-related injuries on their website.
While the SHA emphasizes that the partnership with Surgical Centres Inc. Is intended to alleviate pressure on the public system, critics argue that it represents a shift towards privatization and could undermine the principles of universal healthcare. The focus on routine day surgeries in private centres, while beneficial in freeing up hospital operating rooms, may not address the needs of patients requiring more complex or specialized procedures.
Current Options for Surgical Care in Saskatchewan
Saskatchewan residents currently have several options for accessing surgical care. The SHA provides publicly funded surgeries in regional hospitals, while private surgical centres offer services to those who can afford them or have private insurance. The government of Saskatchewan provides information on navigating surgical care, including contact information for surgical centres in various locations, such as Estevan (306-637-2424) and Kindersley (306-463-1000 ext 2545).
Clearpoint Health Network likewise operates a surgery centre in Regina, fully accredited by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Saskatchewan according to their website. They also highlight a strong partnership with the Workers’ Compensation Board (WCB).
The SHA’s centralized wait list management system aims to prioritize patients based on wait times, but factors such as surgeon availability and operating room capacity can still influence wait durations. The system is designed to ensure that those who have waited the longest are given priority, but the complexity of surgical scheduling can create challenges in achieving equitable access to care.
As Saskatchewan continues to navigate the challenges of surgical wait times, the debate over the role of private surgical centres is likely to intensify. The long-term impact of the expanded partnership with Surgical Centres Inc. Remains to be seen, and ongoing monitoring and evaluation will be crucial to ensure that all residents have access to timely and quality surgical care.
The future of surgical care in Saskatchewan will depend on a careful balance between leveraging the capacity of private facilities and strengthening the public healthcare system. Continued investment in public hospitals, recruitment of healthcare professionals, and innovative approaches to surgical scheduling will be essential to address the growing demand for surgical services and ensure equitable access for all.
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Disclaimer: This article provides informational content about health and medicine and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
