Source: Brenda Senger, Physician Health Program Director, Saskatchewan Medical Association

CMA-Scotiabank Physician Wellness Initiative Agreement

The SMA via financial support from the CMA/Scotiabank Physician Wellness Initiative, has developed the following new initiatives:

• The Equity, Diversity and Inclusion initiative – a committee has been formed to begin understanding the experiences and impact of racism on physicians and medical learners. An educational session was held at the May Representative Assembly (RA). 
• The development of a robust website focused on physician health issues to enable easy and convenient access to information/resources.
• A needs assessment survey has been initiated to identify physicians’ needs and gaps encountered within the Physician Health Program.  
• Funding to provide access to healthy food for all medical learners during in-hospital rotations after 6pm.
• Providing remuneration to physicians who are involved in Crisis Intervention Stress Management (CISM) debriefings or peer support.

Stress is inevitable. Struggling is optional. If you are a physician struggling with mental health concerns, please know there is a safe, confidential place for you to contact. Call the Physician Health Program at the Saskatchewan Medical Association. Brenda Senger Director 306-657-4553 brenda.senger@sma.sk.ca    Jessica Richardson Clinical Coordinator (Regina/South) 306-657-4553 jessica.richardson@sma.sk.ca