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Regina Campus Year in Review 2024 - 2025

Questions? Contact Dr. Gill White, Associate Dean Regina Campus gill.white@saskhealthauthority.ca

Land Acknowledgement We acknowledge that we are on treaty land, referred to as Treaty 4 Territory and that the USask College of Medicine Regina Campus and all the people here are beneficiaries of this treaty. Treaty 4 encompasses the lands of the Cree, Saulteaux, Dakota, Nakota, Lakota, and on the homeland of the Métis Nation. We pay respect to the ancestors of this place, and reaffirm our relationship with one another and the land which sustains us. We respect and honour the Treaties that were made on all territories, we acknowledge the harms and mistakes of the past, and we are committed to moving forward in partnership with Indigenous Nations in the spirit of reconciliation and collaboration.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

USask College of Medicine Regina Campus Update 2024-25 Message from Dr. Gill White

Highlights from 2024-25

Program Expansion - Undergraduate Medical Education

Social Accountability, Diversity and Equity

Regina Campus Learners

Medical Degree Supports and Programs

Commitment to Educational Standards - Accreditation

Donor Support and Impact

Campus and Faculty Engagement

Faculty Development Update

Program Expansion - Postgraduate Medical Education

Master of Physician Assistant Studies (MPAS) Program

Physician Recruitment

Learning Spaces and Resources

Building a Digital Campus

Research, Learning and Wellness

Building Community

Research

Connect with the Regina Campus on Social Media

Regina Campus Staff

USask College of Medicine Regina Campus Update 2024-25

MESSAGE FROM DR. GILL WHITE

Associate Dean, Regina Campus As we look back at the 2024-25 academic year, I am incredibly proud of the milestones we hit together at the Regina Campus. Despite budget and staffing pressures, our community showed remarkable resilience, expanding our academic footprint and boosting our research profile. Here are a few highlights of what we accomplished: Research & Connection: We grew student research engagement with 14 Regina students diving into Dean’s projects, successfully hosted the RISE Conference, and launched a new campus newsletter. UGME Strides: We added academic support and careering advising roles to our UGME team, boosted Regina-led lecture hosting to 21.3%, and excelled in accreditation prep with seven team members on key committees. PGME Expansion: We officially launched the Dermatology residency program, established local bases for Anesthesia and Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, and added two new positions to Family Medicine. Faculty & Indigenous Health: Regina faculty leadership grew by 6%, anchored by Dr. Jackie Kraushaar’s new provincial role as Director of Faculty and Learning Development. We also restructured our Indigenous Coordinator position under the Department of Indigenous Health to strengthen local cultural support. Thank You None of these achievements would be possible without the energy and dedication of our amazing faculty and staff. Thank you for your hard work, your clinical expertise, and your commitment to our growth. You have created an excellent, supportive environment where our learners can thrive and become superb future physicians. Looking Ahead Building on our strong foundations, we shift toward sustaining this momentum and addressing our evolving campus needs. By continuing to refine our recruitment and retention strategies, we will ensure the Regina Campus remains a premier, inclusive environment for medical education and research. Let’s keep working together to make our campus an amazing place to learn, teach, and grow!

USask College of Medicine Regina Campus Update 2024-25

YEAR IN REVIEW 2024-25

Regina Campus Highlights Dr. Sarah Forgie (MD) stepped into the College of Medicine deanship role on July 1, 2024 and just a few weeks later, Regina campus students, faculty and staff had the opportunity to sit down with her for lunch. Following some round-table conversations and recommendations on what to see and do while in Regina, Dr. Forgie was given a tour of our campus facilities which included the Dilawri Simulation Centre and the anatomy lab.

Third-year Regina Campus student Natisha Thakkar was selected as a 2024 Canadian Medical Hall of Fame Award recipient! She received the Dr. Calvin R. Stiller Award for her leadership and advocacy. https://www.cdnmedhall.ca/2024cmhfaward#USask "I'm extremely passionate about advocating for women's health. It's because of leaders and innovators that have paved the way before me that I am able to work to inspire change in our institutions today.”

The Pediatric Unit – 4F – Regina General Hospital was nominated by the College of Medicine Regina Learners as the “Most Learner Friendly” on the occasion of National Nursing Week May 18 - 22, 2025. Regina Campus Associate Dean, Dr Gill White (MD) made a presentation to the 4F team in recognition of the honour.

USask College of Medicine Regina Campus Update 2024-25

PROGRAM EXPANSION

Undergraduate Medical Education Our expanding undergraduate program gives Regina learners hands-on clinical training during every year of medical school.

Year 1

Year 2

Year 3

Year 4

learners

The Regina Campus offers hands-on clinical training throughout the entire undergraduate program. Year 1 and 2 students quickly build core skills through small group sessions and early clinical placements.

TOTAL UGME LEARNERS

154

Later on, third-year students complete core clerkship rotations at Regina clinical sites, followed by senior electives and pre-residency training. Through this growth, our campus is proud to help meet the healthcare needs of Saskatchewan.

In the 2024-25 academic year, 121 USask clerks completed electives in Regina, totaling 524 weeks. 33 of these were Year 4 Regina-based clerks, accounting for 458 weeks. 18 visiting clerks from other schools completed 42 weeks of electives in Regina. Clerks now complete 4 weeks of electives during Year 3, and then up to 20 weeks of elective during Year 4.

USask College of Medicine Regina Campus Update 2024-25

PROGRAM EXPANSION

Undergraduate Medical Education The 5th Annual Open House event was held at the Regina General Hospital auditorium in collaboration with the College of Medicine Admissions Team. The event is an opportunity to promote the Regina Campus to prospective students of the College of Medicine, to showcase the Regina Campus with a tour of the facilities and, hear from current students through student experience presentations. Our team of departmental Medical Teaching Nurse Coordinators for PPE Donning/Doffing and Scrubbing, Gowning, and Gloving sessions, and “Brief Interprofessional Observership” Experience. The assistance of OR Nurse Educator for Scrubbing, Gowning, and Gloving sessions has been invaluable. The SHA Clinical Librarians have been leading Regina-Site Evidence Based Medicine Lectures for the preclerkship learners. The Clinical Librarians have also been participating in Evidence Based Medicine small group sessions, along with SHA Research Specialists. There are now Communications and Ethics sessions that partner physicians with Allied Health Professionals including nurses, social workers occupational therapists, naturopathic practitioners, and other healthcare providers. For the MSK module and PM&R, learners work with physiotherapists, social workers, occupational therapists. The “Brief Interprofessional Observership” Experience in Clinical Skills I continues, and focuses on specific objectives of team functioning, interprofessional communication and conflict resolution, and collaborative leadership. The Nurse Coordinators support several of these experiences as well. We have physiotherapists teaching Surface Anatomy, as well as STARS paramedics assisting with Point of Care Ultrasound Sessions, and SHA Laboratory Staff leading venipuncture sessions.

The number of on-site lectures for 2024-25 where Regina Faculty were the primary presenters and facilitators of distributed educations sessions shows an increase from the previous academic year. 21.3% of lectures were hosted in Regina in 2024-25, an increase from 13%.

USask College of Medicine Regina Campus Update 2024-25

OFFICE OF STUDENT AFFAIRS

Meet Regina's OSA Team The Office of Student Affairs (OSA) provides support for students looking for help with mistreatment, health, wellness, accessibility and academia in the College of Medicine. We are a first point of contact when students are in need and will provide resources, support, and referrals to other knowledge experts or professionals. Looking for some advice, academic or otherwise? Book an appointment with one of our team members. Our team works to establish a safe, welcoming place for students to explore ideas and work toward solutions in an open-minded, proactive environment.

Additional information on student services including the Office of Student Affairs, financial literacy, mistreatment and student wellness is available at: medicine.usask.ca/students/undergraduate/student-affairs.php

USask College of Medicine Regina Campus Update 2024-25

SOCIAL ACCOUNTABILITY, DIVERSITY AND INCLUSIVITY

Regina Campus Learners The University of Saskatchewan (USask) College of Medicine embeds social accountability, equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) directly into its curriculum and admissions framework. Formally overseen by the Division of Social Accountability (DSA), these initiatives ensure that future physicians at both the Saskatoon and Regina campuses reflect and understand the complex demographics of Saskatchewan. The demographic of the Regina campus cohort closely mirrors the following provincial class metrics: Approximately 84% of the student body graduated from a Saskatchewan high school. 50% of the enrolled students identify as female. Around 17% of the class comes from rural backgrounds, defined as communities with populations under 20,000. The remaining 16% is split between students from Western Canada (9%) and Eastern Canada (7%). Social Accountability in the Curriculum At the Regina campus (and provincially), social accountability dictates the educational roadmap: Core Coursework: Students take a multi-year Medicine & Society core course sequence focusing heavily on the social determinants of health, historical/intergenerational trauma, and systemic racism. Cultural Safety Clinical Training: Standard clinical skills courses are embedded with modules on delivering culturally safe care for LGBTQ2+ communities, immigrants, refugees, and Indigenous populations. Community Engagement: Students actively rotate through community-based organizations, innercity clinics, and low-resource environments to directly confront health inequities.

USask College of Medicine Regina Campus Update 2024-25

SOCIAL ACCOUNTABILITY, DIVERSITY AND INCLUSIVITY

Medical Doctor Supports and Programs PATHWAYS SUPPORT FOR INDIGENOUS STUDENTS TO PURSUE MEDICINE Pathways Support for Indigenous Students to Pursue Medicine is open to a continuing student (beyond first year of a degree program) or a student currently enrolled in a graduate program (following the completion of a 4-year degree) attending an accredited Saskatchewan degree granting institution. Applicants will be eligible to apply to have their support renewed for two additional years if they are making progress towards their degree with the intention of applying to the College of Medicine MD program. PRICE OF A DREAM The Price of a Dream (POD) program was developed to address the personal and systemic financial barriers individuals face when applying to medical school. The $150 application fee and the $75 interview fee associated with a medical school application are waived through the POD program for the upcoming application cycle to the USask College of Medicine. MEDICAL COLLEGE ADMISSION TEST (MCAT) FEE ASSISTANCE PROGRAM The Association of American Medical Colleges and the Association of Faculties of Medicine in Canada provide a fee assistance program for Canadian examinees who register for the MCAT. Canadian examinees who are eligible and qualify, will receive reduced scheduling, rescheduling, and cancellation rates. CERTIFICATE OF GLOBAL HEALTH The Global Health Certificate program is the first program of its kind in Canada, designed for health professional learners who seek to deepen their understanding of global health challenges and develop the skills necessary to address health inequities in underserved and marginalized populations. This interdisciplinary program provides trainees with a critical and decolonizing approach to global health, equipping them with the knowledge, tools, and practical experience needed to navigate the complexities of health disparities, both locally and globally. INDIGENOUS HEALTH ELECTIVES Indigenous health electives are an additional learning opportunity for medical students. These electives are offered in urban, rural and remote communities across Saskatchewan where students learn culturally-aware patient care for working with Indigenous peoples. POSTGRADUATE MEDICAL EDUCATION Once you graduate with your MD, the College of Medicine offers residency training leading to certification by the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada or the College of Family Physicians of Canada. Admission to these programs is through the Canada Residency Matching Service (CaRMS).

Source: Admission to the USask MD program

COMMITMENT TO EDUCATIONAL STANDARDS

Accreditation of College of Medicine Programs Undergraduate Medical Education The University of Saskatchewan (USask) Undergraduate Medical Education (UGME) program is fully accredited by the Committee on Accreditation of Canadian Medical Schools (CACMS) and the Liaison Committee on Medical Education (LCME). Once committees were struck to discuss the accreditation standards, 7 members of the Regina team participated in the accreditation committees, with 2 of our team as committee chairs. During the 2024–25 academic year, the college actively updated student assessment and EPA (Entrustable Professional Activities) policies in preparation for its full accreditation site visits to be held in early 2026. Accreditation Highlights & Actions (2024–25) Standards Maintenance: The MD program continued meeting all national educational quality standards set by CACMS and LCME. Policy Updates: The Undergraduate Medical Education Student Assessment Policy was updated in October 2024, March 2025, and June 2025 to optimize student assessment practices. EPA Implementation: Full assessment of all 12 core Entrustable Professional Activities was rolled out across clerkship training to align with national standards for incoming Canadian medical graduates. Upcoming Visits Preparation: The college is preparing documentation and internal reviews leading up to its official virtual (March 2–4, 2026) and in-person (April 21–22, 2026) full accreditation site visits. Source: UGME Accreditation Portal

Postgraduate Medical Education Following the PGME accreditation site visit in 2023, rulings were given to each program. Programs with new residents in the program (two new programs and one reactivated program) will undergo external reviews in Spring 2026, and programs with rulings of ER-2Y (external review in two years) will undergo an external review in Fall 2026. All programs undergoing external reviews in Spring and Fall 2026 will undergo internal reviews in Fall 2025. Several programs will continue to work on areas of improvement and will be required to provide an APOR (Action Plan Outcomes Report) to the accrediting bodies by Fall 2026. One new program, Dermatology, was approved by the Royal College in June 2025, and an external review will be held following admission of the first resident(s) in the program. As always, we will maintain our focus on continuous quality improvement and evidence-based decision-making as we continue through the accreditation cycle. Source: 2024-2025 PGME Annual Report

USask College of Medicine Regina Campus Update 2024-25

DONOR SUPPORT AND IMPACT

Abd Alfatah Alras

Story by Trenna Brusky, College of Medicine

Completing a degree in medicine is a major achievement and a huge responsibility. It requires a significant investment of time, money, and dedication. Support in the form of scholarships, bursaries and awards can be critical in ensuring students have the resources they need to achieve their educational goals. Abd Alfatah Alras grew up watching his father, an orthopedic surgeon, change lives. From grade one he knew he wanted to be a doctor, too. Abd was born and raised in Syria. His family left Syria because of the war, lived as refugees for a period, and has called Saskatchewan home for the past seven years. “Saskatchewan is now the place where I have stayed the longest... So, to me, it’s like my home now and I’m very fortunate to have a lot of opportunities and a lot of blessings from this land,” he reflected. Before entering USask’s College of Medicine, Abd completed an undergraduate degree in kinesiology, receiving the Dean’s Medal as the graduating student with the highest grade-point average. Now a second-year medical student at USask’s Regina campus, he is navigating living away from his family while pursuing his passion. Although the transition to living in Regina was challenging, Abd believes being selected as a student for the Regina campus was a blessing and a privilege. The smaller, more intimate classes have helped him with both the educational and the social aspects of school. “I really enjoy my time in the classroom. As they say, I’m really enjoying the journey. I think when I finish medical school, when I reflect on it, it will be one of the best times in my life,” said Abd.

“Donor support is a great investment that makes a huge positive change to a student... Being on the receiving end of it, I can tell you for sure I will be a donor as well once I start having an income, I believe that it’s definitely worth it. It’s a good investment.” Medical students often have to balance the cost of tuition and living expenses on top of the demands of a rigorous program. Bursaries, scholarships and awards provide important financial relief that allows students to focus on their studies and dedicate more time to valuable extracurricular activities like clubs, internships, and research projects.

USask College of Medicine Regina Campus Update 2024-25

DONOR SUPPORT AND IMPACT

Abd Alfatah Alras The College of Medicine currently offers over $300,000 in bursaries and scholarships, which are made available by generous contributions from alumni and donors. Abd, who juggles his studies, family commitments, community involvement, volunteerism and work, explained it like this: “When you get a bursary, it is equivalent to the income of one to two full-time jobs. How I love to think about it is that every $20 I receive from a scholarship is just one hour of my time that is being freed.” He has been able to spend his extra time studying and to continue helping to build a strong, supportive academic community with those around him. While completing his undergraduate degree, Abd co-founded and was the director of the awardwinning USask Amal Humanitarian Club, which serves the community while providing volunteer and leadership opportunities for students. As a medical student, he and some of his Regina campus classmates started the Good Doctor Club. Members gather to review past course material to keep knowledge fresh and improve their retention. Abd stressed that he is only able to be part of this valuable extracurricular group because of the time freed up for him because of his bursary. Abd also explained that medical school is often the last stage when students will experience financial strain, that it can be stressful worrying about school and financing especially with the pressures of a busy schedule. He said donor support, “is a great investment that makes a huge positive change to a student... Being on the receiving end of it, I can tell you for sure I will be a donor as well once I start having an income, I believe that it’s definitely worth it. It’s a good investment.” What is Abd most looking forward to about becoming a doctor? He thoughtfully explained, “patients come to you in a very vulnerable state, and with their families concerned for them. You are the one who can help them; you’re the one who is there to support them when they are most vulnerable... That’s why I study hard, because I want to make sure that I can help my patients the best way I can.” Photos by Aisling Gamble, College of Medicine

USask College of Medicine Regina Campus Update 2024-25

DONOR SUPPORT AND IMPACT

Thank You The College of Medicine proudly recognizes the organizations and ministries that champion our mission and vision at the Regina Campus. Saskatchewan Health Authority Hospitals of Regina Foundation Saskatchewan Ministry of Health Saskatchewan Ministry of Advanced Education University of Saskatchewan University of Saskatchewan College of Medicine University of Saskatchewan College of Medicine Advancement The steadfast support of our colleagues and institutional partners yields immeasurable benefits for our students, faculty, and staff. Together, you directly strengthen the future of health education, research, and community care across our entire College.

CAMPUS AND FACULTY ENGAGEMENT

Regina Campus Leadership Panel On October 8, 2024, the College of Medicine - Regina Campus hosted a leadership panel and luncheon. The event connected students, faculty, and staff directly with senior administration to discuss current operational priorities and institutional goals.

Panel Speakers • Dr. Sarah Forgie, Dean, College of Medicine • Dr. Kent Stobart, Vice Dean of Education • Dr. Gill White, Associate Dean (Regina) • Dr. Marilyn Baetz, Vice Dean, Faculty Engagement • Dr. Rashmi Bhargava (Moderator), Faculty Engagement Director (Regina)

New Faculty Orientation The Regina Campus welcomed several new faculty members in the 2024-25 academic year. In support of institutional growth, a welcome and orientation session was held for new faculty to the Regina Campus. This initiative, led by Dr. Marilyn Baetz, Vice Dean, Faculty Engagement, and Dr. Rashmi Bhargava, Director of Faculty Engagement (Regina) provided critical professional development frameworks, focusing on integrating new members into active teaching opportunities and outlining pathways for long-term career advancement.

USask College of Medicine Regina Campus Update 2024-25

FACULTY DEVELOPMENT

Faculty Development Regina Update Update from Dr. Helen Chang, Faculty Development Regina Lead As we wrap up our 3rd year as a full UGME campus, our faculty continue to grow and develop! Regina is now home to several graduates of the M.Ed. (HPE) and Clinician Educator programs. Many of our faculty have stepped forward enthusiastically into new roles in UGME and PGME. Regina faculty can connect with their provincial C.E. program peers through the regular T-Time meetings – special thanks for the generosity and hospitality of those who have hosted these sessions in their own homes! Our SAGE (Skilled Academic Generalist Educators) program continues, with its 12 generalist physicians teaching over 600 hours in 2024-25, while also devoting time to improving their own teaching and learning needs through the online SAGE and FD Canvas courses. The SAGE online course modules are accredited for Mainpro and MOC credits, including a new OSCE Remediation module this year, built in collaboration with the Academic Support Team. SAGE faculty also participate in the PROMPT-Med (Peer Observation and Mentorship Program for Teaching in Medicine) program. We are excited to see this program expanding to Saskatoon campus under the leadership of Dr. Leane Pask in July! Regina Campus participated in RISE (Research, Innovation, and Scholarship in Education) online on Friday, June 13th, 2024, with Regina’s own Dr. Ibraheem Othman co-chairing with Dr. Cathy MacLean. Faculty from both campuses helped with the planning committee, abstract reviews, and over 85 participants joined online for a full day of learning and connecting. Thanks to all the staff and faculty from both campuses whose hard work and energy put together a fun and successful celebration of local medical education research! We work closely with the pre-clerkship UGME team, assisting with OSCE examiner orientation – In 2024-25, we moved to on-site orientation at both campuses, creating a more engaged session, with lots of good questions and discussion. Examiners – thanks for being on time! Supporting our faculty’s wellness is essential – and we hope that opening the doors to mindful practice for our faculty will be part of that… more to come next year! Thanks to Ravijot Mangat, Aribah Rauf, Catherine Mackay-Wilson, Dr. Gill White, Dr. Cathy MacLean, Amy Winik, and our Saskatoon FD colleagues for their invaluable support, and especially to our faculty, for their continued dedication to teaching & learning!

USask College of Medicine Regina Campus Update 2024-25

PROGRAM EXPANSION

Postgradute Medical Education Residency Programs Based in Regina

Emergency Medicine

Pediatrics

Family Medicine

Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation

Internal Medicine

Anesthesia

Psychiatry

Sports Medicine

TOTAL PGME LEARNERS: 105

Teaching in Regina As of August 2024, over 80% of RCPSC physicians in Regina hold faculty appointments. All physicians in the following departments hold faculty appointments: • Cardiology • Cardio-thoracic Surgery • Dermatology • Infectious Disease • Lab Medicine

• Neurology • Pediatrics • Physiatry • Public Health • Rheumatology • Vascular Surgery

The following departments have all but one member with faculty appointments: • Gastroenterology • Nephrology • Neurosurgery

USask College of Medicine Regina Campus Update 2024-25

• Otolaryngology • Plastic Surgery • Respirology

Obstetrics & Gynecology

Dermatology

PROGRAM EXPANSION

Master of Physician Assistant Studies (MPAS) program The MPAS program is a two-year graduate program designed to foster excellence in training, research, and clinical practice. As the inaugural program in Saskatchewan, we are committed to fostering excellence in training, research, and clinical practice. We strive to prepare Physician Assistants who will become key contributors to collaborative healthcare teams, significantly improving service efficiency and patient care. Aligned with the College of Medicine’s commitment to social accountability, the program aims to significantly increase the representation of Saskatchewan residents, especially those from underserved communities. Physician Assistants are health care professionals that work under the supervision of licensed physicians, but have autonomy to perform a wide range of clinical tasks and procedures. By nature, Physician Assistants work in teams with many other health professionals in clinics, hospitals and communities. Learning alongside and from other health sciences students will strengthen interprofessional relationships that can support stronger, more team-based health care in the workplace. While core medical foundations and classes are coordinated through the college, Regina serves as a major hub for hands-on student clinical rotations, with learners completing hospital and clinic placements directly in Regina facilities alongside other provincial sites. Program Structure: Year One: Intensive classroom learning, medical foundations, case-based learning, and clinical skill labs. Year Two: Supervised clinical rotations across various specialties (such as emergency medicine, surgery, and family medicine) at distributed provincial sites, including in Regina.

For more about the MPAS program, visit medicine.usask.ca/mpas/index.php

USask College of Medicine Regina Campus Update 2024-25

PHYSICIAN RECRUITMENT

Recruitment to Regina Campus 42 physicians were recruited to Regina Campus in 2024-25. Of those, 10 of the physicians completed their residency program at the USask College of Medicine in Regina or Saskatoon. The remaining 32 physicians completed their residency programming elsewhere.

Residency at College of Medicine Saskatoon

Total Recruited to Department

Anesthesiology

Critical Care Intensivist

Emergency Medicine

Department

Residency at College of Medicine Regina Campus

Family Medicine

Pathology & Laboratory Medicine Medicine

Obstetrics Gynecology

Pediatrics

Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation 2

Psychiatry Public Health & PM Surgery

3 6 Data provided by the Office of Practioner Staff Affairs for July 1, 2024 to June 30, 2025

According to the latest data from the USask Postgraduate Medical Education (PGME) 2024–2025 Annual Report, the percentage of USask residents from specialty programs who remained in Saskatchewan upon completion of training increased by more than 10% as compared to the previous year. Source: 2024-25 PGME Annual Report

USask College of Medicine Regina Campus Update 2024-25

LEARNING SPACES AND RESOURCES

The Dilawri Simulation Centre The Dilawri Simulation Centre (DSC) continues to be a highlight at all program levels n the Regina campus. The centre has seen an increase in the demand for simulation as the Regina campus is now home to the anesthesia and Royal College emergency programs. The center has also seen an increase in student interest groups and hosting self-directed learning sessions including areas such as POCUS, surgical skills, and orthopedics to name a few. Due to the proximity to the rest of the hospital, the DSC also facilitates a number of simulations Insitu. Insitu simulations allow medical learners to work directly with nursing and allied healthcare teams in clinical care spaces. Special care is taken to not interrupt patient care and is done in a quick and efficient manner to ensure a rich learning experience without taking away from clinical responsibilities. These cases are of benefit to all involved and aid in the seamless transfer of learning to the clinical environment. On December 2024, the DSC hosted its first inperson Sim FUNdamentals workshop. The workshop was the second of a 2-part course developed by the College of Medicine Simulation team in collaboration with the DSC and the Saskatchewan Polytechnic Nursing program. Participants were from varied disciplines (Anesthesia, Family Medicine, Respiratory Therapy, Rural and Tertiary Nurse Educators, and Paramedics), all of whom attended with the goal of honing their debriefing skills in an interprofessional setting. Since September 2024, there have been 5 workshops hosted across the province with 43 participants!

To book a simulation session or to inquire about simulation opportunities in Regina, please contact the DSC via email at dilawri.simulationcentre@saskhealthauthority.ca.

LEARNING SPACES AND RESOURCES

The Anatomy Lab The College of Medicine, Regina Campus has its own Anatomy Lab that continues to be used to deliver content through cadaveric specimens and anatomical models to medical learners to meet the objectives of the Anatomy curriculum. Access to the anatomy lab provides Regina students with the ability to gain clinical skills and hands-on learning. In 2024-25, a brain model was added to the collection of training tools available to Regina students. The brain model is a great tool to show the arteries of the brain, and can be disassembled into 9 parts. This medially divided deluxe brain model shows the brain arteries. The basilar artery of the brain is removable for added detail. Both halves of this high quality brain model can be disassembled into: Frontal with parietal lobes Temporal with occipital lobes Half of brain stem Half of cerebellum The classic brain is a great tool for education on the human nervous system and anatomy of the brain.

USask College of Medicine Regina Campus Update 2024-25

LEARNING SPACES AND RESOURCES

SHA Clinical Library at the Regina General Hospital Library Overview The SHA Clinical Library provides access to unique clinical-based tools (available provincially) on its College of Medicine Regina Campus guide. The Library’s Regina General Hospital branch (located on the lower level of RGH) provides space for students, clerks, and residents to meet, do research, and study. The guide on the website also provides a link to book the back study room which includes a large monitor and whiteboard. This library space also includes a separate print collection specifically to support College of Medicine learners which is accessible 24/7 with their badges A small print book collection is also available on the 5th floor Resident Lounge at the Regina General Hospital.

Services The friendly and knowledgeable library staff can provide assistance in several areas, including helping with research projects, evidence searches, citation managers, accessing full-text articles, and more! Librarians also teach the Foundations in Clinical Medicine class in Regina and act as tutors in the CaseBased Learning sessions.

Study Space and Docking Stations The Library’s RGH branch now has 6 docking stations which allow students to plug in their laptops and have access to an additional monitor. They can also charge their phones with it. These have been very popular. The library branches at the Pasqua Hospital and the Wascana Rehabilitation Centre also offer additional study space and each have one docking station. All three locations are accessible 24/7 with badge access and they provide free printing and computers with access to SCM.

Registration and Access The Library has a single registration form for all users, including College of Medicine learners. Registration provides access to the Library’s online resources using the learner’s NSID (the student university number) as their library card number. Registration also enters learners into the Library’s system for borrowing books.

For more on all the library has to offer, visit: library.saskhealthauthority.ca/home/CoMRegina

USask College of Medicine Regina Campus Update 2024-25

LEARNING SPACES AND RESOURCES

Simulated Patient Program The College of Medicine's Simulated Patient Program supports student education in undergraduate and postgraduate health science programs through recruitment, casting, and training of Simulated Patients (SPs) to portray diverse scenarios in a variety of standardized and/or high-stakes learning and assessment sessions. Simulated patients (SPs) represent a diverse range of ages and backgrounds. The program at the Regina General Hospital features more than 100 individuals, from young children to seniors. While many current or retired healthcare professionals, teachers, and performers participate, anyone can become an SP. As members of the University of Saskatchewan, we lead the way in role modelling and creating a welcoming and inclusive workplace. We are proud of the diversity of our faculty and staff, and we recognize that our university only grows stronger as we better reflect the province and society as a whole. We are committed to diversity and having a workforce that is representative of our community. The Simulated Patient Program is committed to reflecting our diverse local community in the SP pool, to allow learners to meet individuals representative of those they will encounter during clinical rotations and future practice or other work environments. The Regina Campus continues to broaden the diversity of the SP pool. In 2024-25, there were 108 SPs at the Regina Campus, 19 of those being new to the program. Of the new SPs, 43% declared they represent a non-Causcasian ethnic group. 19% of returning SP's declared themselves as representing ethnic groups other than Caucasian.

USask College of Medicine Regina Campus Update 2024-25

BUILDING A DIGITAL CAMPUS

Technology Improvements Technology improvements were made at the College of Medicine Regina Campus in 2024-25, which included:

CoM Classroom Evergreen Project

New Resident Lounge and Dictation Workspaces

The CoM Classroom on Level 1B received a total overhaul with new podium, ceiling-mounted cameras, microphones, and speakers. Following the revamp, the room is suitable for medium and large cross-campus gatherings, and features two 86” TVs for presentations.

On the other end of the hospital, part of the campus’s expansion took place in the former SWADD area on Level 1A, allowing the creation of new administrative offices, resident lounge, and dictation areas with new workstations for Internal Medicine and Emergency residents.

RESEARCH, LEARNER SUPPORT & WELLNESS

Support our Faculty in their desire to be teachers and researchers, and to support our learners The College of Medicine Regina Campus delivers comprehensive academic, research, and personal infrastructure for its faculty, medical students and residents. Faculty Support: Dedicated site leadership drives faculty development through teaching workshops, research mentorship, and scholarship opportunities like the annual RISE conference. Research: The Clinical Research Support Unit drives clinical investigations, offering study design, consultation, and summer research opportunities for students. Learner Support: The Undergraduate Medical Education Office manages local academic training, supported by advanced facilities like the Dilawri Simulation Centre and the SHA Clinical Library. Wellness: Dedicated Student Affairs programs provide confidential counseling, peer support networks, and wellness workshops tailored to stressful clinical environments.

USask College of Medicine Regina Campus Update 2024-25

BUILDING OUR CAMPUS COMMUNITY

Integration Weekend The Integration Weekend is an annual event hosted by the Saskatchewan Medical Students' Association (SMSS) at the College of Medicine. It brings first-year medical students from both the Saskatoon and Regina campuses together for hands-on clinical skills days, campus familiarization, and social events with upper-year students. The weekend offers practical sessions covering clinical procedures like suturing, intubation, IV insertions, and physical exams, and helps Saskatoon-based learners familiarize themselves with the Regina campus facilities and regional staff.

USask College of Medicine Regina Campus Update 2024-25

BUILDING OUR CAMPUS COMMUNITY

2025 Regina Campus Appreciation Night The 2025 Regina Campus Appreciation Night was held at the Conexus Arts Centre on May 15, 2025. This annual event celebrates the contributions of faculty, staff, preceptors, and community partners who support medical education at the Regina Campus. The evening featured greetings, awards, and musical entertainment in recognition of the dedication and commitment of all who make the Regina Campus a vibrant learning environment.

Greetings were delivered by Dean Sarah Forgie and also by Ingrid Kirby on behalf of the Saskatchewan Ministry of Health. Both speakers acknowledged the vital role of the Regina Campus community in training the next generation of physicians and expressed gratitude for the ongoing partnership between the College of Medicine and the province.

Congratulations and thanks were extended to all faculty, preceptors, staff, and community partners for their outstanding contributions to medical education at the Regina Campus. Special recognition was given to those who go above and beyond in mentoring students and advancing the mission of the College of Medicine.

We extend our gratitude to the band Hummingbird Crossing (Dr. Helen Chang, Tim Mrazek, Jennifer Petriew and Vance Petriew), and to our first year medical students Zoe Stradeski and Samantha Leech for their incredible musical performances throughout the evening.

USask College of Medicine Regina Campus Update 2024-25

BUILDING OUR CAMPUS COMMUNITY

2025 Regina Campus Appreciation Night

BUILDING OUR CAMPUS COMMUNITY

2025 Regina Campus Appreciation Night

BUILDING OUR CAMPUS COMMUNITY

Arts Showcase The Neil Balkwell Civic Arts Centre was the setting for the September 26 showcase night, where students shared creative works including visual art, photography, poetry, and a live musical performance. The evening celebrated the diverse talents of medical students beyond the classroom and provided an opportunity for students, faculty, and community members to connect through the arts. Improv exercises opened the evening, encouraging spontaneous creativity and laughter before the featured presentations.

Collaboration Between Campuses – UGME The Courageous Conversations and Strengthening Networks retreat brought together faculty and staff from across UGME campuses to explore themes of collegiality, collaboration, and shared purpose. The retreat featured workshops on building effective interprofessional relationships and fostering inclusive learning environments. Dr. Anurag Saxena led a collegiality workshop that encouraged participants to reflect on communication practices and develop strategies for strengthening connections across distributed campus sites.

USask College of Medicine Regina Campus Update 2024-25

RESEARCH

Regina faculty named as 2025-27 Clinician Research Support Program (CRSP) recipients Through a collaborative partnership between the Hospitals of Regina Foundation (HRF), Saskatchewan Health Authority (SHA), and the USask’s College of Medicine Regina Campus, Saskatchewan is moving forward in research. Administered by the SHA Research Department, the Clinician Research Support Program (CRSP) provides promising new clinician researchers an opportunity to achieve early successes and to build a track record that can strengthen their future funding applications to provincial, national, and international funding opportunities. Successful applicants receive 1-2 days/week of research support from a SHA Research Specialist for a period of 2 years. Announced in June of 2024, the 2025-27 CRSP recipients are: Dr. Maria Giroux, Obstetrics & Gynecology

Dr. Giroux is a Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgeon (FPMRS) and an Assistant Professor at the University of Saskatchewan. She is an early career urogynecologist with a subspecialty practice dedicated to providing comprehensive surgical and nonsurgical treatment options for pelvic floor disorders, obstetric anal sphincter injuries (OASIs), and persistent postpartum pain. Her research interests include management of obstetric anal sphincter injuries (OASIs), pelvic floor pain, and persistent postpartum pain (PPP). Dr. Giroux has established a dedicated community clinic with endoanal ultrasound for patients with OASIs where she conducts research in obstetrical trauma. She is currently involved in more than 10 local, national, and international academic projects and actively mentor learners at the University of Saskatchewan. CRSP support will provide Dr. Giroux with the ability to grow academically and to make a positive impact to the care for women in the province of Saskatchewan who suffer from obstetrical trauma and OASIs. Dr. Shain Thakrar, Emergency Medicine Dr. Thakrar is an early career researcher with experience in supervising the clinical and research activities of residents and undergraduate medical learners. His clinical activities have encompassed being the Emergency Medicine Provincial Lead of Addictions & Vulnerable Populations and assistant professor at USask’s College of Medicine. Dr. Thakrar has a passion for enhancing patient care in a multitude of ways including finding solutions to improve treatments for patients with opioid use disorder, to make significant impacts to patients, families and clinicians by allowing patients to play a more active role in their care plans, and by using administrative databases to address inquiries pertaining to patients who leave the hospital before medically advised. Dr. Thakrar’s hope is that through the engagement with healthcare system leaders and the involvement of researchers, students and residents to learn about developing research projects to address clinical issues, the research he participates in can lead to meaningful impact on patient outcomes, experiences and care. USask College of Medicine Regina Campus Update 2024-25

RESEARCH Dr. Lauren Zarnett, Neurosurgery Dr. Zarnett is a neurosurgeon and an Assistant Professor at the University of Saskatchewan’s College of Medicine. During her neurotrauma fellowship. Dr. Zarnett was fortunate to work within a highly collaborative, multidisciplinary TBI team, an experience that deeply shaped her approach to clinical care and research, and she hopes to build similarly integrated efforts in Saskatchewan over time. Her complex spinal surgery fellowship emphasized the effect of patient education, especially on post-operative expectations and satisfaction, and she feels strongly that patients would benefit from reliable, individualizable resources they could utilize both while awaiting elective spine surgery and post-operatively. Dr. Zarnett’s clinical experiences have shaped her research focus into two main areas: improving data collection for traumatic brain injuries and creating accessible educational resources for spine patients in Saskatchewan. Early in her research career, she is excited about the opportunity to build meaningful, patient-centered projects that directly improve care and communication. In addition to the new CRSP recipients, through a donation from Dr. George Carson, two doctors were awarded an additional year of CRSP support: Dr. Ernesto Figueiro Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology.

Drs. Figueiro and Smith were recipients of CRSP support for the 2023-25 term.

USask College of Medicine Regina Campus Update 2024-25

Dr. Sarah Smith, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology.