MEMBERSHIP GUIDE Saskatchewan Medical Association | 2018
MEMBERS ON OUR COVER Row 1, left to right:
Dr. Sara Dungavell, psychiatry, Saskatoon | Dr. Kesiena Akpoigbe, public health, La Ronge | Dr. Hoda Elshoni, pathology resident, Saskatoon | Dr. Joel Schindel, family medicine, Beardy’s & Okemasis First Nation and One Arrow First Nation
Row 2, left to right:
Dr. Francisco Garcia, urology, Swift Current | Nancy Hua, student, Saskatoon | Dr. Reid Sonntag, family medicine resident, Swift Current | Masooma Bhatti, student, Saskatoon
Row 3, left to right:
Larissa Padayachee, student, Saskatoon | Dr. Volker Rininsland, family medicine, Moose Jaw | Dr. Crystal Litwin, family medicine, Wynyard | Dr. Allan Woo, orthopaedic surgery, Saskatoon
Row 4, left to right:
Dr. Matthew Butz, family medicine resident, Prince Albert | Palak Suryavanshi, student, Regina | Dr. Joseph Buwembo, neurosurgery, Regina | Dr. Janet Tootoosis, family medicine, Battleford
MISSION As the common voice of our members, we serve, represent and unite Saskatchewan physicians. We advance the honour and integrity of the medical profession; advance the professional, personal, educational, and economic welfare of Saskatchewan physicians; and promote a high quality, patient-centred health care system.
CONTENTS 4 5
6 7 8 9 10 11 12
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Welcome Membership
CME Fund
Parental Leave Program
Retention Fund
CMPA Reimbursement Fund
Fees and contracts Insurance Canadian Medical Association MD Financial Management (MD) Privacy Saskatchewan EMR Program Physician support programs
Physician Health Program
Member Advisory Component
Medical Benevolent Society
Retention and recruitment Rural and regional practice support Specialist support
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Rural Relief Program Education and leadership Residents Insurance for residents Students Roadmap Program Member communications Structure and governance CMA Code of Ethics
WELCOME Dear Colleague, Thank you for choosing, to join the Saskatchewan Medical Association (SMA). The SMA provides advocacy, leadership and support in all phases of your career, as a student, a resident, a physician in active practice and in retirement. The SMA has numerous programs and services that make a positive difference in both your professional and personal life. This guide outlines the wide range of benefits available to you and your family, and how to access them. By joining the SMA, you automatically become a member of the Canadian Medical Association (CMA) and can access all the comprehensive products, services and resources of that membership as well. As the voice of organized medicine in Saskatchewan, the SMA represents specialists, family physicians, residents and medical students in a way that honours the values of physicians, such as collegiality and quality patient care. Our voice gets stronger with each member, helping the SMA advocate for a quality health-care system for Saskatchewan, and advance the honour and integrity of the profession. We hope this guide serves as a useful resource. Should you have any questions about the SMA or about practising medicine in Saskatchewan, please don’t hesitate to contact us at any time.
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MEMBERSHIP Continuing Medical Education Fund The Continuing Medical Education (CME) Fund assists physicians with the costs associated with continuing medical education. Expenses for educational courses, meetings or materials may be eligible for reimbursement under the fund. Physicians may make one or more applications during a calendar year or may allow the funds to carry over for use in the following year. All eligible physicians are encouraged to take advantage of the fund. For complete program guidelines and to apply, or to check your CME balance, visit the SMA website.
For more information about the Continuing Medical Education Fund, Parental Leave Program, Retention Fund or other membership inquiries, contact: Joelle Kostiuk, Coordinator, Membership & Benefits (Parental leave, Retention Fund) Email: joelle.kostiuk@sma.sk.ca Samantha Thoen, Coordinator, Membership & Benefits (CME and CMPA) Email: samantha.thoen@sma.sk.ca
Parental Leave Program The Parental Leave Program is available to licensed physicians living and working in a self-employed practice in Saskatchewan. The program provides up to 20 weeks of benefits to a physician who is taking a maternity, paternity or adopted child care leave from clinical practice. The physician will receive 50 per cent of his or her average weekly income earned over the previous six months, to a maximum of $1,300 per week. These benefits may be reduced by benefits or income received from other sources.
Retention Fund Along with the government of Saskatchewan, the SMA has established a physicians’ Retention Fund that provides financial rewards to physicians who practise in the province for extended periods. Physicians who practise in Saskatchewan for a defined period of time will earn annual entitlements that will be paid to them at designated intervals. In order to accumulate benefits, a physician must hold licensure with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Saskatchewan and provide insured clinical services in Saskatchewan that meet the thresholds for eligibility or be in a medical administrative position approved by the Retention Fund board.
Dr. Mark Brown, family physician Moose Jaw Jaqueline Carverhill and Thea Hedemann, students Saskatoon
CMPA Reimbursement Fund The SMA assists in administering the Canadian Medical Protective Association (CMPA) Reimbursement Fund, which rebates Saskatchewan physicians a portion of the fees associated with medical liability malpractice insurance premiums. Eligible physicians must be selfemployed, meet certain thresholds of activity and not receive benefits from any third party or employer.
Find out more at www.sma.sk.ca • •
Application forms for member benefits Personal fund balances and statements (member login required)
Saskatchewan Medical Association
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FEES AND CONTRACTS Dr. Mahli Brindamour, paediatrician, Saskatoon The SMA is the voice of physicians in Saskatchewan. From health-care reform to health issues, the association promotes quality health-care practices and health services and advocates for a quality health-care system for Saskatchewan patients and physicians.
Negotiations The SMA represents members in both negotiating contracts and administering negotiated contracts. It is the sole bargaining agent for fee-for-service physicians in negotiating with the provincial government. It also provides a number of services to groups and individual physicians working under or considering salary and contractual arrangements, including negotiation support, representation, economic and legal advice and dispute resolution. Under a new memorandum of understanding with the provincial government, the SMA is transitioning to become the sole bargaining agent for non-fee-for-service groups.
Fees The SMA is responsible for the distribution of annual fee-forservice increases among the various specialty groups, known as the intersectional allocation process, and for regularly modernizing and updating the fee schedule, as managed by the Tariff Committee. This includes the establishment of new fees, as well as changes in assessment rules, fee code descriptions and clarification of appropriate billing protocols and any other facets of the fee schedule. Billing advice and assistance in dealing with the Ministry of Health ‘s Medical Services Branch, in regard to the payment schedule for insured services provided by a physician, is also available to all members. The SMA publishes the SMA Fee Guide for uninsured services and provides advice and assistance with billing outside agencies such as the Workers’ Compensation Board, SGI, Saskatchewan Justice and the RCMP as well as out-of-country residents. For more information, contact the economics team: Mark Ceaser, Director, Economics Email: mark.ceaser@sma.sk.ca Viktoriia Didkovska, Senior Compensation Analyst Email: viktoriia.didkovska@sma.sk.ca Andrea Kohle, Senior Compensation Analyst Email: andrea.kohle@sma.sk.ca
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Saskatchewan Medical Association MEMBERSHIP GUIDE | 2018
Find out more at www.sma.sk.ca •
Compensation
INSURANCE As part of our mission to advance the economic welfare of Saskatchewan physicians, the SMA recognizes insurance as vital, not only to members, but also their families and employees. With the power of a large membership, the SMA has negotiated the essential and best features into all of our insurance plans with various insurance companies at competitive low rates. Furthermore, the SMA continues to review and subsequently enhance the plans. As a member of the SMA, you may apply for insurance benefits with superior coverage at affordable rates. SMA insurance is designed to save you money in three ways:
Dr. Intheran Pillay, family physician Gravelbourg
1. We work with insurers who combine top coverage with the most attractive premium structure. 2. Our association rates offer significant savings over individual plans. 3. Our life and disability plans feature equity sharing with participants. The SMA offers the following insurance products: • • • • • • • •
Dr. Jenny Basran, geriatrician Saskatoon
Disability Life Office overhead Extended medical and dental benefits Accidental death and dismemberment Residential property Medical office property Benefits for employees of medical offices
For more information, contact our experienced, noncommission insurance team:
Dr. Dalibor Slavik, family physician Saskatoon
Cindy Anderson, Manager, Membership, Benefits & Insurance (licensed through the Insurance Councils of Saskatchewan) Email: cindy.anderson@sma.sk.ca
A clear plan for the future means peace of mind in the present.
Donna Hanna, Insurance Administrator Email: donna.hanna@sma.sk.ca Jenna Duff, Insurance Assistant Email: jenna.duff@sma.sk.ca
Find out more at www.sma.sk.ca •
insurance@sma.sk.ca
Saskatchewan Medical Association
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CMA Your SMA annual dues include membership with the Canadian Medical Association (CMA). For more than 150 years, only the CMA has united the broad expertise of the medical community for the benefit and well-being of all Canadians. The CMA currently represents more than 85,000 physicians, focusing on the needs of the profession as well as advocating on matters affecting the health and health care of Canadians. In addition to the opportunity to contribute to CMA policy development by participating in the CMA e-Panel or online CMA community, CMA membership provides access to a comprehensive range of products and services designed to meet the evolving needs of physicians – from medical school to retirement – including: •
More than $2,000 in leading evidence-based online clinical tools and apps – such as ClinicalKey, DynaMed Plus, CPS online and CPS on the RxTx Mobile app – that provide access to more than 1,200 textbooks, more
than 2,000 journals, drug information, clinical practice guidelines, patient education and more through Joule, the CMA’s newest company. •
MD Financial Management: Owned by the CMA for more than 45 years, MD’s goal is to help physicians achieve financial well-being.
•
The Joule Innovation program that provides mentorship and knowledge sharing opportunities for physician innovators as well as a grant program that awards $150,000 in grants annually for physician-led innovation.
For more information about the Canadian Medical Association, please visit cma.ca
Find out more at www.sma.sk.ca •
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Saskatchewan Medical Association MEMBERSHIP GUIDE | 2018
Link to CMA clinical resources
MD FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT (MD) As a CMA company, MD Financial Management (MD) is the only financial services firm 100 per cent dedicated to the financial well-being of Canada’s physicians. At MD, we have an unrivalled understanding of the unique needs of physicians and their families. We’re committed to delivering on those needs through best-in-class financial and practice solutions, investment expertise and personalized customer service that’s tailored to every career and life stage, from medical school and practice through to retirement and beyond. We’ve been putting physicians first for more than 45 years. MD advisors work on salary, not commission. Without incentives to sell any particular product, our advisors provide objective advice that is in your best interests. Objectivity is also part of our unique approach to fund management. It’s an approach based on disciplined oversight and selection from among the world’s best asset managers. Our priority is for you to meet your financial goals, not for us to maximize corporate profits.
Contact us Why not talk to an MD advisor at one of our Saskatchewan offices to get started on your comprehensive financial plan, with advice and solutions specific to every stage of your career. You can also find out more about MD and its products and services by visiting md.cma.ca. Please note that MD’s services are available only to CMA members.
MD’s Saskatchewan offices Saskatoon 100–306 Queen St., Main floor Saskatoon SK S7K 0M2 Tel.: (306) 244-0077 Toll-free: 800 667-0077 Fax: 306 244-8685 Email: prairieregion@cma.ca Regina 205–3303 Hillsdale St. Regina SK S4S 6W9 Tel.: (306) 359-7200 Toll-free: 888 880-6211 Fax: 306 359-9900 Email: prairieregion@cma.ca
Saskatchewan Medical Association
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PRIVACY SMA corporate privacy In order to offer and provide the services and privileges to which members are entitled, the SMA collects personal information about its members. The association only uses this information for the purposes outlined in the SMA Corporate Privacy Policy. The SMA is committed to protecting the privacy and security of its members’ personal information. As required by the Personal Information and Protection of Electronic Documents Act of Canada (PIPEDA), the SMA will not collect, use or disclose personal information about you without your consent. Further, we will never sell your personal information. The SMA has designated Sherry Chen, Director, Corporate Services, responsible for the SMA’s compliance with its information handling practices and PIPEDA. For further information please contact: Sherry Chen, Director, Corporate Services Phone: (306) 657-4583 Email: privacy@sma.sk.ca.
EMR/clinic-related privacy As a physician, you have a legal and professional responsibility to ensure you have taken reasonable measures to protect the confidentiality of your patients’ personal health information in your custody or under your control. This is accomplished by putting in place administrative, technical and physical safeguards. In addition, you are obligated, as a trustee, to inform patients of their rights under the Health Information Protection Act (HIPA). The SMA offers resources on our website to help you meet these obligations. In addition, if you have further inquiries regarding EMR/ clinic-related privacy issues, please contact: Aftab Ahmad, Director Saskatchewan EMR Program Phone: (306) 657-4572 Email: aftab.ahmad@sma.sk.ca
Find out more at www.sma.sk.ca •
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Saskatchewan Medical Association MEMBERSHIP GUIDE | 2018
Privacy step-by-step guide
SASKATCHEWAN EMR PROGRAM Quantifiable data analysis • •
The Saskatchewan EMR Program assists physicians with the adoption and mature use of electronic medical record solutions in their clinics. Physicians can realize many benefits with the implementation and utilization of EMR software, including:
Quality of care and patient safety • • • •
Improvements in quality of and access to patient information Reduction in clinical errors Help for providers to keep more complete records Reduction in a number of redundant tests and services
Administrative efficiencies • •
Reduction in staff time spent on specific paper-based tasks, i.e. pulling and filling paper charts Reduction in the space required to store paper files
Communication • •
Improved access to clinic information regarding patients Improved information sharing among health-care providers
Easier observation of trends and patterns Enhanced ability to analyze data
Through a joint funding agreement between the SMA, eHealth Saskatchewan and the Saskatchewan Ministry of Health, physicians in Saskatchewan can receive ongoing support for the approved Electronic Medical Record (EMR) systems. The three partners have adopted a multi-faceted approach to change management and funding to assist physicians with implementation and use. The Saskatchewan EMR Program has granted approval status to the following EMR vendors: • •
Telus Med Access QHR Technologies Accuro
For more information about the Saskatchewan EMR Program, contact: Aftab Ahmad, Director, Saskatchewan EMR Program Phone: (306) 657-4572 Email: aftab.ahmad@sma.sk.ca
Find out more at www.sma.sk.ca • •
Funding information Change management assistance information
Saskatchewan Medical Association
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PHYSICIAN SUPPORT PROGRAMS The SMA supports physician health and well-being through a range of programs and services. Confidential referral, assessment, treatment and ongoing supports are available to physicians and their families. Consultation and advice are also available to physicians handling difficult professional and interpersonal issues. Health promotion and educational sessions are available upon request.
Physician Health Program The Physician Health Program provides assistance to colleagues, students, residents and their families who may be struggling with a variety of issues, including: • • • •
Mental health Substance abuse/addiction Physical health Marital and family concerns
Support is available to physicians throughout the spectrum of their careers, from medical school and residency, through active practice and into retirement. Referral sources and those accessing service can be reassured that all information remains strictly confidential. Physicians who offer support through this program come from a variety of backgrounds and expertise, the common denominator being a dedication to the provision of nonjudgmental and confidential assistance and support.
Member Advisory Component The SMA’s Member Advisory Component assists SMA members who request help in responding to investigations or inquiries such as: • •
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Saskatchewan Medical Association MEMBERSHIP GUIDE | 2018
Patient complaints to the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Saskatchewan. Formal interviews or disciplinary proceedings by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Saskatchewan.
•
Billing investigations by the director of professional review or the Joint Medical Professional Review Committee. • Proceedings initiated by the Saskatchewan health authority. Its purpose is to: Provide counsel to members of the association who require assistance in responding to inquiries or investigations; assist members under investigation in preparing the best possible responses to inquiries; make appropriate recommendations when investigative procedures are deemed to be unfair or biased; and advise members under peer review when legal counsel is desirable. Activities are designed to supplement, and not replace, those of the Canadian Medical Protective Association. All details of involvement are kept strictly confidential.
Medical Benevolent Society The Medical Benevolent Society provides financial assistance to physicians, medical students, their surviving spouses and/ or dependent children in need. The Medical Benevolent Society is a registered, charitable foundation established and directed jointly by the Saskatchewan Medical Association and the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Saskatchewan. For more information about the Physician Health Program, Member Advisory Component or Medical Benevolent Society, contact: Brenda Senger, Director, Physician Support Programs Email: brenda.senger@sma.sk.ca Jodi Munro, Admin. Assistant, Physician Support Programs Email: jodi.munro@sma.sk.ca
Find out more at www.sma.sk.ca • •
Self-reflection tools (member login required) Physician Health Program contact information (member login required)
Saskatchewan Medical Association
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RETENTION AND RECRUITMENT The SMA aims to help recruit physicians to Saskatchewan and retain those already working in the province. Two SMA committees manage funds which have been negotiated through the Ministry of Health to provide programming in support of these recruitment and retention efforts, the Committee on Rural and Regional Practice and the Specialist Recruitment and Retention Committee.
Rural and regional practice support The Committee on Rural and Regional Practice (CORRP) provides the following bursaries, grants and programs to support physicians practising medicine in rural and regional Saskatchewan.
Rural Relief Program – The Rural Relief Program provides relief from practice for physicians in rural communities in which there are four or fewer physicians. Relief may be requested for periods of four to 14 days. Learn more on page 16.
Rural and Regional Extended Leave Program – The Rural and Regional Extended Leave Program provides funds to physicians in rural or regional practice for reimbursement of costs and forgone practice income in order to participate in an educational activity. The program supports physicians who are upgrading their skills and knowledge in areas of their choice, within the parameters of the program. The duration of training may range from one to six weeks.
Rural Travel Fund – This program facilitates cooperation and support between physicians practising in rural Saskatchewan. It is intended to encourage improved communication between rural physicians and to help maintain the quality of care being provided to rural residents. Physicians may claim reimbursement when travelling to provide the following services in neighbouring communities: Anaesthesia, surgical assistance, consultations and practice coverage when the neighbouring physician is away. Rural and Regional Emergency Care CME Program This program reimburses physicians in rural and regional practice for the cost of registration and a portion of the travel and accommodation expenses associated with certifying and re-certifying their skills in emergency care and risk management, within the parameters of the program. CORRP family medicine resident bursary recipients are eligible for PALS, ATLS and ALARM during residency.
Rural and Regional Clinical Skills Program – The Rural and Regional Clinical Skills Program is intended to provide the opportunity for medical students and family medicine residents to work alongside a rural or regional family physician who provides both in-patient and emergency coverage for a weekend on
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call period. In this way the student will enhance their clinical skills and be introduced to rural medicine in a positive way.
Rural and Regional Physician Enhancement Training Program – This program provides funding for two practising rural or regional physicians and for two second-year family medicine residents to complete a third year of training to enhance their skills in areas such as obstetrics, anaesthesia, general surgery, internal medicine, geriatrics or psychiatry. Practising rural or regional physicians receive income replacement funding. Third-year family medicine residents may receive a stipend equal to that of a resident at pay level PGY3 on the College of Medicine grid. Recipients must provide a returnin-service in a rural or regional community.
Family Medicine Resident Bursary Program – Successful medical resident candidates can receive bursary support to a maximum of two years of funding. Upon obtaining licensure, bursary recipients are required to provide a return-in-service commitment in rural, northern or regional Saskatchewan.
Special Needs Loan Program – This program provides assistance to students and residents training to practise medicine in rural, northern or regional Saskatchewan and is intended to be a last resort financial option, having exhausted other funding options.
Roadmap Program for Students and Residents – The Roadmap Program for Students and Residents acts as a guide to medical learners throughout their medical training journeys. It offers opportunities for learners to have positive experiences in rural and regional Saskatchewan through rewarding contests and events. It also provides resources and information to help learners through the challenges of medical school while giving them an opportunity to influence how health care is delivered in the province. Learn more on page 21.
Find out more at www.sma.sk.ca • Roadmap Program events and contests Specialist support • •
Program application forms Bursary and grant eligibility requirements
Specialist support The Specialist Recruitment and Retention Committee was established in 2000 to design programs that facilitate the recruitment and retention of specialists to the province. The committee offers the following programs, although several of the programs are being reviewed.
Specialist Recruitment Incentive – A grant is available to eligible specialists who establish a practice for a minimum of 36 months in a Saskatchewan community. A limited number of grants will be available per annum. Preference will be given to applicants who are Saskatchewan-trained, Canadiantrained or are a landed immigrant holding full licensure with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Saskatchewan. All applications are subject to approval by the Specialist Recruitment and Retention Committee.
Specialist Extended Leave Program - The Specialist Extended Leave Program is provided through an agreement between the Saskatchewan Medical Association and the government of Saskatchewan. The program’s purpose is to provide funds to specialist physicians for reimbursement of costs and foregone practice income in order to participate in personalized educational instruction. The program also supports physicians to upgrade skills and knowledge in areas of their choice for periods of one to six weeks.
Roadmap Program for Specialist Residents Building on the successful Roadmap Program for Students and Residents, a program that offers a collection of information for students and family medicine residents, the Specialist Recruitment and Retention Committee designed this program to increase the exposure of specialist residents to Saskatchewan. This program exposes residents to new communities, developing a relationship between the community and future medical professionals early in their training. The program also leads to specialist residents building close ties within the Saskatchewan medical community as they transition to practice. Learn more on page 21.
Specialist Enhancement Training Program - The Specialist Enhancement Training Program provides funding to allow specialists practising in Saskatchewan, either Canadian certified or foreign-certified, the opportunity to obtain additional training. Training may be sought as a professional sabbatical to obtain post sub-specialty training or to meet the requirements of the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons to sit the Canadian certification exam. Six annual grants are available for a maximum of two years and are provided according to the length of training. Candidates are encouraged to pursue studies at the University of Saskatchewan or another accredited North American teaching program.
For more information about rural, regional and specialist recruitment and retention programs, contact: Jane Hickson, Process Improvement Specialist Email: jane.hickson@sma.sk.ca
Find out more at www.sma.sk.ca • •
Specialist program application forms Program guidelines
Saskatchewan Medical Association
Dr. Joanne Sivertson, obstetrician/gynaecologist, Prince Albert
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RURAL RELIEF PROGRAM Physicians practising in rural Saskatchewan are an integral part of a patient-focused health-care system. The SMA offers relief support to help rural physicians maintain a healthy work/life balance.
Rural Relief Program Many rural physicians provide medical coverage with heavy call responsibilities to the communities they serve. The Rural Relief Program is intended to provide relief from this demanding regime for periods of four to 14 days for practices in rural communities in which there are fewer than five physicians. Through the Rural Relief Program, the SMA contracts physicians who are available to travel throughout rural Saskatchewan and replace the local physician on a temporary basis. A physician may request the services of an SMA locum to attend a continuing medical education program, have a vacation or to ensure medical coverage to the community while attending to personal/family matters. Host physicians pay a subsidized rate for each day of locum coverage, as well as an on-call retainer, and arrange accommodations for the visiting physician. If you meet the program criteria and you require a locum, please submit your request up to six months in advance. Requests can be made online or by contacting the coordinator for the rural relief program. The SMA will contact you (approximately one month in advance) to let you know if a locum physician is available to fill your request. For more information about the Rural Relief Program, contact: Randall Kehrig, Coordinator, Physician Relief (Locum) Program Email: randall.kehrig@sma.sk.ca
Photo credit: Kristine Kim, internal medicine
Find out more at www.sma.sk.ca •
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Request a Rural Relief locum online
EDUCATION AND LEADERSHIP Physician Leadership Institute (PLI)
docs4docs
No matter where you are in your career – practising physician, resident or medical student – the Physician Leadership Institute (PLI) will prepare you to be a more effective leader. The PLI is the Canadian Medical Association’s (CMA’s) leadership development program designed specifically for physicians in Canada’s health-care system.
New physicians, fresh from post-graduate training, face a host of challenges as they begin to work in their medical practices. Through docs4docs, Saskatchewan Physician Mentorship, the SMA is connecting new physicians with those who are wellestablished in the province to help with the transition from training to practising. This program matches a new physician with a physician working in the same area of expertise.
When you enrol in a PLI course, you can be confident that: • •
•
•
Course content and examples will be practical and relevant to health care and medical practice in Canada. Instructors are subject-matter and education experts with an intimate knowledge of Canada’s healthcare environment. Learning approaches incorporate multiple perspectives, include real-life, real-time activities and promote rich problem-solving among peers. Classmates are health-care professionals with interests and needs similar to your own.
For more information about in-house PLI courses, contact: Delilah Dueck, Coordinator, Community Engagement Email: delilah.dueck@sma.sk.ca
Canadian Certified Physician Executive (CCPE) Physicians are encouraged to consider accreditation through the Canadian Certified Physician Executive (CCPE) credential program, developed by the CMA and the Canadian Society of Physician Executives. The CCPE is the first nationally recognized, standards-based peer assessment for physicians in leadership roles. Based on the CMA’s Physician Leadership Competency Framework, the credential affirms that individual physicians who seek leadership or executive-type roles have demonstrated the knowledge and skills needed for successful performance.
Practice Enhancement Program The Practice Enhancement Program (PEP), jointly funded by Saskatchewan Health, the SMA and the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Saskatchewan, offers Saskatchewan’s physicians a positive means of assessing their medical practices. The assessment process is one of medical peer review that looks at a physician’s office facilities, procedures and medical records to determine the quality of care being provided by that physician. As assessments are completed and specific needs for enhancement are observed, PEP recommends educational and remedial resources to improve skills in specific areas.
Dr. Annette Epp, obstetrician/gynaecologist, Saskatoon
Find out more at www.sma.sk.ca • •
Sign up for PLIs online Learn more about docs4docs and apply to be a mentor/ mentee
Saskatchewan Medical Association
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RESIDENTS Once you have started your medical training, the SMA has a range of benefits available to you and your family. By joining the SMA, you automatically become a member of the Canadian Medical Association (CMA) and can access all the comprehensive products, services and resources of that membership as well.
Bursaries and grants Family Medicine Resident Bursary Program - Successful medical resident candidates can receive bursary support to a maximum of two years of funding. Upon obtaining licensure, bursary recipients are required to provide a return-in-service commitment in rural, northern or regional Saskatchewan. The deadline for application is October 31.
Governance and leadership The SMA meets with the Resident Doctors of Saskatchewan (RDoS) and its executive regularly in an effort to maintain an ongoing communication link regarding resident issues. Through elections by RDoS, post-graduate residents are represented on various SMA committees including the Representative Assembly (the SMA’s parliament), the Legislation and Policy Committee, the Committee on Rural and Regional Practice, the Physician Health Program, and the Specialist Recruitment and Retention Committee, and have observer status on the Board of Directors.
Special Needs Loan Program - This program provides assistance to students and residents training to practise medicine in rural, regional or northern Saskatchewan and is intended to be a last resort financial option, having exhausted other funding options.
Rural and Regional Physician Enhancement Training Program - The Rural and Regional Physician Enhancement Training Program provides funding for two second-year family medicine residents to complete a third year of training to enhance their skills in obstetrics, anaesthesia, general surgery, emergency medicine, geriatrics or psychiatry.
MD Financial Management MD Financial Management offers investment expertise and a wide range of financial products and services to resident members and their families. They can specifically address resident needs through their financial planning service and debt-management expertise. They also provide practice management advice to help physicians with the set-up and operation of their practices.
Physician Support Programs The SMA supports the health and well-being of physiciansin-training through a range of programs and services. Confidential referral, assessment, treatment and ongoing supports are available to residents and their families. Please see page 12 for more information.
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Dr. Neil Kalra, radiology resident, Saskatoon
Find out more at www.sma.sk.ca • •
Bursary and grant eligibility requirements Learn more about SMA Physician support programs.
INSURANCE FOR RESIDENTS As part of our mission to advance the economic welfare of Saskatchewan physicians, the SMA recognizes insurance as vital, not only to members, but also their families and employees. In partnership with the University of Saskatchewan, residents have not only full membership with the SMA but also are eligible for SMA life and disability insurance coverage as part of their benefit package paid for by the U of S through the RDoS contract. Residents complete three applications to access these benefits:
1. Life insurance: • • • •
•
2 units life insurance: $100,000 with waiver of premium rider No medical underwriting Name any beneficiary Premiums paid by University of Saskatchewan through RDoS agreement (except for optional future insurance option rider) Additional life insurance up to $5,000,000 available for you and your spouse
2. Disability insurance: • • •
$2,500/month disability insurance No medical underwriting Premiums paid by University of Saskatchewan through RDoS agreement
3. Additional disability insurance: • • • •
Additional disability coverage equal to monthly salary, depending on year of residency. See table above right. Medically underwritten Entire monthly income covered with basic and additional disability benefits Premiums paid by University of Saskatchewan through RDoS agreement, except for optional riders (own occupation and retirement protection)
Your insurance will evolve with you as you transition from resident to practising physician, whether or not you stay in Saskatchewan. Level
Guaranteed Additional Coverage Coverage
Total Coverage
PGY1
$2,500
$2,200
$4,700
PGY2
$2,500
$2,700
$5,200
PGY3
$2,500
$3,100
$5,600
PGY4
$2,500
$3,500
$6,000
PGY5
$2,500
$3,900
$6,400
PGY6
$2,500
$4,400
$6,900
Premiums paid by U of S through RDoS contract. For more information, contact our experienced, noncommission insurance team: Cindy Anderson, Manager, Membership, Benefits & Insurance (licensed through the Insurance Councils of Saskatchewan) Email: cindy.anderson@sma.sk.ca Donna Hanna, Insurance Administrator Email: donna.hanna@sma.sk.ca Jenna Duff, Insurance Assistant Email: jenna.duff@sma.sk.ca
Coverage can continue and be increased throughout residency and following residency whether or not you remain in Saskatchewan. Contact insurance@sma.sk.ca for more details.
4. Home/tenant insurance Residents can also enjoy preferred rates for home/tenant insurance through The Personal. The Personal should be contacted directly for a quote at 1-888-476-8737 or online at www.thepersonal.com/sma.
Saskatchewan Medical Association
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STUDENTS Once you have started your medical training, the SMA has a number of benefits available to you and your family. By joining the SMA, you automatically become a member of the Canadian Medical Association (CMA) and can access all the comprehensive products, services and resources of that membership as well.
Insurance
MD Financial Management, a wholly-owned subsidiary of the CMA, offers a range of financial services and investment expertise to members and their families. They can specifically address student needs through their financial planning service and debt-management expertise.
Student leadership
As part of our mission to advance the economic welfare of Saskatchewan physicians, the SMA recognizes insurance as vital, not only to members, but also their families and employees. With the power of a large membership, the SMA has negotiated the essential and best features into all of our insurance plans with various insurance companies at competitive low rates. Students are eligible to take advantage of:
The SMA works with the Student Medical Society of Saskatchewan (SMSS). Through the SMSS, medical students are represented on various SMA committees, including the Representative Assembly, the Committee on Rural and Regional Practice, the Specialist Recruitment and Retention Committee, the Physician Health Program and the Board of Directors.
1. Life insurance
Physician Support Programs
• • • • •
Two units of life insurance: $100,000 No medical underwriting (guaranteed coverage) Name any beneficiary Additional life insurance up to $5,000,000 available for you and your spouse Continues through residency and into practice whether of not you stay in Saskatchewan
2. Disability insurance • • • •
•
Year 1 and year 2 students: $1,500/month disability insurance Year 3 and year 4 students: $2,500/month disability insurance No medical underwriting (guaranteed coverage) Additional disability insurance up to $4,000/ month available to year 4 students with medical underwriting Converts to enhanced coverage upon entrance into residency. Premiums assumed by University of Saskatchewan if residency is in Saskatchewan
3. Home/tenant insurance • •
Preferred rates available to SMA members through The Personal Contact directly for a quote online at www.thepersonal.com/sma or call toll-free 1(888) 476-8737
Your insurance will evolve with you as you transition from student to resident to practising physician, whether or not you stay in Saskatchewan. Contact insurance@sma.sk.ca. Please see page 7 for more information.
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The SMA supports the health and well-being of physiciansin-training through a range of programs and services. Confidential referral, assessment, treatment and ongoing supports are available to students and their families. Please see page 12 for more information.
Rural and Regional Clinical Skills Program The Rural and Regional Clinical Skills Program provides the opportunity for medical students and family medicine residents to work alongside a rural or regional family physician who provides both in-patient and emergency coverage for a weekend on-call period.
Find out more at www.sma.sk.ca • • •
Fill out an insurance information request form. Learn more about SMA physician support programs. Rural and Regional Clinical Skills Program parameters and application.
ROADMAP PROGRAM
The Roadmap Program The Roadmap Program is an initiative of the SMA’s Committee on Rural and Regional Practice and the Specialist Recruitment and Retention Committee
For students and family medicine residents
For specialist residents
The Roadmap Program for students and residents acts as a guide to medical learners throughout their medical training journeys. It offers opportunities for learners to have positive experiences in rural and regional Saskatchewan and gives them an opportunity to influence how health care is delivered in the province.
Building on the Roadmap Program’s previous years’ success providing information for students and family medicine residents, the Specialist Recruitment and Retention Committee designed this branch of the program to increase the exposure of specialist residents to Saskatchewan.
What to expect •
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Four tours per year to rural/regional centres where participants will get a taste of life and practice in that community and have the opportunity to build connections with local physicians. Fun contests with great prizes including trips to the SRPC Rural and Remote Conference. Appreciation events that allow students/residents to socialize with their colleagues, build collegiality and network with practising physicians. Access to student/resident specific information and resources such as: • Bursaries and grants • Insurance • Education and leadership opportunities • Physician support programs
This program exposes residents to new communities, developing a relationship between the community and future medical professionals early in their training. The program also leads to specialist residents building close ties within the Saskatchewan medical community as they transition to practice. The SMA’ s website has links and resources that are relevant to specialist residents, such as: • • • •
Education and leadership opportunities Events and contests Practice opportunities Education resources
Through the program, you will also have opportunities to provide feedback, participate in contests and explore various practice locations in Saskatchewan.
For more information about the Roadmap Program visit www.sma.sk.ca/roadmap Or contact: Delilah Dueck, Coordinator, Community Engagement Email: delilah.dueck@sma.sk.ca Saskatchewan Medical Association
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MEMBER COMMUNICATIONS Electronic communication
Publications
Website and member site
SMA Digest
The SMA website, www.sma.sk.ca, contains the most up-todate information about the association and is your hub for physician stories, news, upcoming events and information about SMA programs and services.
SMA Digest celebrates the stories of Saskatchewan physicians, provides news, features, job opportunities and other items of interest to members. It is the official membership magazine of the SMA and is published and distributed semiannually to 90 per cent of practising physicians in the province of Saskatchewan.
As an SMA member, you also have access to the private member section of the website. Registering to use the site is easy and once registered, you can check your dues, CME balance, insurance summary and update your personal information. The member site also allows you to find member-specific resources, and contact information for SMA staff, the Board of Directors and your Representative Assembly delegates.
Social media Have something to say? Join the conversation on matters relevant to you as a Saskatchewan physician: • • •
Twitter: @sma_docs Facebook: www.facebook.com/SMADocs Instagram: @sma_docs
SMA eNews The SMA eNews is sent via email to members regularly, allowing the SMA to keep in touch with you about what your colleagues are up to, upcoming events, updates to programs and services, and other timely information affecting the health-care landscape in Saskatchewan.
President’s Letters President’s Letters are sent to the membership to provide timely updates on specific topics. These are emailed to members, and they can also be found online along with our other publications.
For more information about member communications, contact: Ivan Muzychka, Senior Communications Advisor Email: ivan.muzychka@sma.sk.ca Maria Ryhorski, Communications Advisor Email: maria.ryhorski@sma.sk.ca Girard Hengen, Communications Advisor Email: girard.hengen@sma.sk.ca Delilah Dueck, Coordinator, Community Engagement Email: delilah.dueck@sma.sk.ca
Daily news report The daily news report provides links to news stories that may be of interest to physicians, locally, provincially and globally. Please email sma@sma.sk.ca to subscribe.
Practice alerts | Member notices Practice alerts and member notices relay time sensitive information that is relevant to our members. Practice alerts contain more urgent information, typically impacting patient care. Member notices contain less urgent information, often pertaining to your membership, benefits or the SMA.
Find out more at www.sma.sk.ca • • •
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Latest news President’s Letters SMA Digest archive
STRUCTURE AND GOVERNANCE Saskatchewan Medical Association members provide direction and guidance to the organization through the Representative Assembly and a number of different committees.
Representative Assembly The Representative Assembly is the governing body of the Saskatchewan Medical Association. It consists of representatives from regional medical associations, specialty sections and medical students and residents. It is given the authority to act for the entire membership as it considers fit and proper and in the interest of members. The Representative Assembly sets the direction of the SMA. It elects the SMA Board of Directors and approves the annual budget, including membership dues and policies regarding reimbursement of expenses to individuals providing services to the association. It is also responsible for appointing the association’s auditors.
Board of Directors and committees The Board of Directors is responsible to the Representative Assembly and exercises all powers of the association and the Representative Assembly between meetings. Responsibilities of the Board include establishing policies relating to the collection of membership dues and nomination and election of district delegates, expending funds as provided in the annual budget and engaging personnel to carry on the administration of SMA business. SMA committees vary in scope and deal with the details that accompany the policies established by the Board of Directors.
2018-19 Board of Directors Executive President - Dr. Siva Karunakaran, Regina Vice-President - Dr. Allan Woo, Saskatoon Honorary Treasurer - Dr. Barb Konstantynowicz Past-President - Dr. Joanne Sivertson, Prince Albert
Board of Directors Dr. Annette Epp Dr. John Gjevre Dr. Andre Grobler Dr. Mohammad Khan Daniel Lee (SMSS) Dr. Crystal Litwin Dr. Charles Omosigho Dr. Naeem Parvez Dr. Eben Strydom Dr. Neil Kalra (RDoS) Dr. Guruswamy Sridhar (CMA)
Staff The SMA staff manages the day-to-day activities of the association, and works toward the strategic priorities set out by the Board of Directors.
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CMA CODE OF ETHICS (Updated 2004) This Code has been prepared by the Canadian Medical Association as an Ethical guide for Canadian physicians, including residents, and medical students. Its focus is the core activities of medicine –such as health promotion, advocacy, disease prevention, diagnosis, treatment, rehabilitation, palliation, education and research. It is based on the fundamental principles and values of medical ethics, especially compassion, beneficence, non-maleficence, respect for persons, justice and accountability. The Code, together with CMA policies on specific topics, constitutes a compilation of guidelines that can provide a common ethical framework for Canadian physicians. Physicians should be aware of the legal and regulatory requirements that govern medical practice in their jurisdictions. Physicians may experience tension between different ethical principles, between ethical and legal or regulatory requirements, or between their own ethical convictions and the demands of other parties. Training in ethical analysis and decision-making during undergraduate, postgraduate and continuing medical education is recommended for physicians to develop their knowledge, skills and attitudes needed to deal with these conflicts. Consultation with colleagues, regulatory authorities, ethicists, ethics committees or others who have relevant expertise is also recommended.
FUNDAMENTAL RESPONSIBILITIES 1. Consider first the well-being of the patient. 2. Practise the profession of medicine in a manner that treats the patient with dignity and as a person worthy of respect. 3. Provide for appropriate care for your patient, even when cure is no longer possible, including physical comfort and spiritual and psychosocial support. 4. Consider the well-being of society in matters affecting health. 5. Practise the art and science of medicine competently, with integrity and without impairment. 6. Engage in lifelong learning to maintain and improve your professional knowledge, skills and attitudes. 7. Resist any influence or interference that could undermine your professional integrity. 8. Contribute to the development of the medical profession, whether through clinical practice, research, teaching, administration or advocating on behalf of the profession or the public. 9. Refuse to participate in or support practices that violate basic human rights. 10. Promote and maintain your own health and wellbeing. RESPONSIBILITIES TO THE PATIENT General Responsibilities 11. Recognize and disclose conflicts of interest that arise in the course of your professional duties and activities, and resolve them in the best interest of patients. 12. Inform your patient when your personal values would influence the recommendation or practice of any medical procedure that the patient needs or wants. 13. Do not exploit patients for personal advantage. 14. Take all reasonable steps to prevent harm to patients; should harm occur,
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disclose it to the patient. 15. Recognize your limitations and, when indicated, recommend or seek additional opinions and services. 16. In determining professional fees to patients for non-insured services, consider both the nature of the service provided and the ability of the patient to pay, and be prepared to discuss the fee with the patient. Initiating and Dissolving a PatientPhysician Relationship 17. In providing medical service, do not discriminate against any patient on such grounds as age, gender, marital status, medical condition, national or ethnic origin, physical or mental disability, political affiliation, race, religion, sexual orientation, or socioeconomic status. This does not abrogate the physician’s right to refuse to accept a patient for legitimate reasons. 18. Provide whatever appropriate assistance you can to any person with an urgent need for medical care. 19. Having accepted professional responsibility for a patient, continue to provide services until they are no longer required or wanted; until another suitable physician has assumed responsibility for the patient; or until the patient has been given reasonable notice that you intend to terminate the relationship. 20. Limit treatment of yourself or members of your immediate family to minor or emergency services and only when another physician is not readily available; there should be no fee for such treatment. Communication, Decision Making and Consent 21. Provide your patients with the information they need to make informed decisions about their medical care, and answer their questions to the best of your ability.
22. Make every reasonable effort to communicate with your patients in such a way that information exchanged is understood. 23. Recommend only those diagnostic and therapeutic services that you consider to be beneficial to your patient or to others. If a service is recommended for the benefit of others, as for example in matters of public health, inform your patient of this fact and proceed only with explicit informed consent or where required by law. 24. Respect the right of a competent patient to accept or reject any medical care recommended. 25. Recognize the need to balance the developing competency of minors and the role of families in medical decision-making. Respect the autonomy of those minors who are authorized to consent to treatment. 26. Respect your patient’s reasonable request for a second opinion from a physician of the patient’s choice. 27. Ascertain wherever possible and recognize your patient’s wishes about the initiation, continuation or cessation of lifesustaining treatment. 28. Respect the intentions of an incompetent patient as they were expressed (e.g., through a valid advance directive or proxy designation) before the patient became incompetent. 29. When the intentions of an incompetent patient are unknown and when no formal mechanism for making treatment decisions is in place, render such treatment as you believe to be in accordance with the patient’s values or, if these are unknown, the patient’s best interests. 30. Be considerate of the patient’s family and significant others and cooperate with them in the patient’s interest. Privacy and Confidentiality 31. Protect the personal health information of your patients.
32. Provide information reasonable in the circumstances to patients about the reasons for the collection, use and disclosure of their personal health information. 33. Be aware of your patient’s rights with respect to the collection, use, disclosure and access to their personal health information; ensure that such information is recorded accurately. 34. Avoid public discussions or comments about patients that could reasonably be seen as revealing confidential or identifying information. 35. Disclose your patients’ personal health information to third parties only with their consent, or as provided for by law, such as when the maintenance of confidentiality would result in a significant risk of substantial harm to others or, in the case of incompetent patients, to the patients themselves. In such cases take all reasonable steps to inform the patients that the usual requirements for confidentiality will be breached. 36. When acting on behalf of a third party, take reasonable steps to ensure that the patient understands the nature and extent of your responsibility to the third party. 37. Upon a patient’s request, provide the patient or a third party with a copy of his or her medical record, unless there is a compelling reason to believe that information contained in the record will result in substantial harm to the patient or others. Research 38. Ensure that any research in which you participate is evaluated both scientifically and ethically and is approved by a research ethics board that meets current standards of practice.
39. Inform the potential research subject, or proxy, about the purpose of the study, its source of funding, the nature and relative probability of harms and benefits, and the nature of your participation including any compensation. 40. Before proceeding with the study, obtain the informed consent of the subject, or proxy, and advise prospective subjects that they have the right to decline or withdraw from the study at any time, without prejudice to their ongoing care. RESPONSIBILITIES TO SOCIETY 41. Recognize that community, society and the environment are important factors in the health of individual patients. 42. Recognize the profession’s responsibility to society in matters relating to public health, health education, environmental protection, legislation affecting the health or well-being of the community and the need for testimony at judicial proceedings. 43. Recognize the responsibility of physicians to promote equitable access to health care resources. 44. Use health care resources prudently. 45. Recognize a responsibility to give generally held opinions of the profession when interpreting scientific knowledge to the public; when presenting an opinion that is contrary to the generally held opinion of the profession, so indicate. RESPONSIBILITIES TO THE PROFESSION
47. Be willing to teach and learn from medical students, residents, other colleagues and other health professionals. 48. Avoid impugning the reputation of colleagues for personal motives; however, report to the appropriate authority any unprofessional conduct by colleagues. 49. Be willing to participate in peer review of other physicians and to undergo review by your peers. Enter into associations, contracts and agreements only if you can maintain your professional integrity and safeguard the interests of your patients. 50. Avoid promoting, as a member of the medical profession, any service (except your own) or product for personal gain. 51. Do not keep secret from colleagues the diagnostic or therapeutic agents and procedures that you employ. 52. Collaborate with other physicians and health professionals in the care of patients and the functioning and improvement of health services. Treat your colleagues with dignity and as persons worthy of respect. RESPONSIBILITIES TO ONESELF 53. Seek help from colleagues and appropriately qualified professionals for personal problems that might adversely affect your service to patients, society or the profession. 54. Protect and enhance your own health and wellbeing by identifying those stress factors in your professional and personal lives that can be managed by developing and practising appropriate coping strategies.
46. Recognize that the self-regulation of the profession is a privilege and that each physician has a continuing responsibility to merit this privilege and to support its institutions.
Copyright 2004 Canadian Medical Association. You may, for your non-commercial use, reproduce, in whole or in part and in any form or manner, unlimited copies of CMA Policy Statements provided that credit is given to the original source. Any other use, including republishing, redistribution, storage in a retrieval system or posting on a Web site requires explicit permission from CMA. Please contact the Permissions Coordinator, Publications, CMA, 1867 Alta Vista Dr., Ottawa ON K1G 3Y6; fax 613 565-2382; permissions@cma.ca. Correspondence and requests for additional copies should be addressed to the Member Service Centre, Canadian Medical Association, 1867 Alta Vista Drive, Ottawa, ON K1G 3Y6; tel 888 855-2555 or 613 731-8610 x2307; fax 613 236-8864. All polices of the CMA are available electronically through CMA Online (www.cma.ca).
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Saskatchewan Medical Association
201 – 2174 Airport Drive, Saskatoon, SK S7L 6M6 P: (306) 244-2196 or 1-800-667-3781 (toll-free in SK) E: sma@sma.sk.ca F: (306) 653-1631 www.sma.sk.ca
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www.sma.sk.ca www.sma.sk.ca
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