The Saskatchewan Health Authority (SHA) is eliminating 26 senior out-of-scope leadership positions to direct resources to patient care and improve financial stewardship.

The SHA says the move is part of a series of leadership changes, including administrative role restructuring that has generated $10.4 million in efficiencies.

The changes also include adding 27 new clinical manager positions and enhancing 20 existing ones in 45 rural and northern communities, including Prince Albert, as well as introducing a new senior physician leadership model.

“These changes are an important part of the province’s work to build a more efficient and integrated health system—one that puts patients first and ensures our health-care professionals have the support they need to deliver the best possible care,” Health Minister Jeremy Cockrill said in a news release.

Of the $10.4 million in annual administrative efficiencies, the SHA will redirect $6.2 million to support patient care priorities and reinvest $4.2 million in local clinical leadership in rural and northern communities, with no impact on in-scope positions.

The SHA is also introducing a new senior physician leadership structure, establishing six deputy chief medical officers (DCMOs) to improve role clarity, physician engagement, and accountability.

Recruitment for the DCMO positions will begin May 23, with the new roles taking effect July 14.

According to SHA, over 45,000 health professionals and over 2,700 physicians are providing care across the province.