The Saskatchewan Ministry of Health announced today the full implementation of a new Saskatchewan-based assessment process designed to recruit more foreign-trained physicians to the province. The new SIPPA program removes the barrier that previously limited international medical graduates' from practicing in Saskatchewan based on their country of training. Now family physician IMGs from all countries will be assessed as long as they meet the licensing criteria. The Province adds that the assessment will ensure physicians are screened to ensure patients receive safe, high-quality care while meeting the needs of health regions in recruiting international medical graduates.

The assessment has operated as a pilot since 2011 and 25 IMGs have since successfully completed the program and are now practicing in the province. Some of the communities already benefiting from the program include: Swift Current, Regina, Saskatoon, Yorkton and Prince Albert.