SHA comments on reports of staffing shortages at Tatagwa View

There have been recent reports of staffing shortages at Tatagwa View Nursing Home in Weyburn. Some citizens are concerned that the residents are not receiving adequate one-on-one time with the nursing home staff.

Tatagwa View houses residents of the Sun Country Health Region who require on-going care. The Sun Country Health Region is part of the Saskatchewan Health Authority (SHA).

Discover Weyburn reached out to the SHA, and they responded with a written statement. In their written statement, they stated that the Tatagwa View Nursing Home is fully staffed, except for one full-time position for a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) that is currently posted on the Health Careers in Saskatchewan website.

"We would encourage anyone qualified and interested to apply." 

The SHA stated that, "Periodically, staff take sick leave, earned time off, vacation or other time they so deserve. This can lead to scheduling challenges."

The statement further stated that the SHA has posted several casual positions to better be able to address these short-term issues.

"As part of the Government of Saskatchewan's Health Human Resources Action Plan, recruiting efforts are underway provincially, nationally and internationally. As an added incentive for new recruits, the Saskatchewan Ministry of Health has implemented a one-time rural recruitment incentive of up to $50,000 for individuals hired into high-priority classifications in rural locations, including health care positions in Weyburn."

High-priority classifications in rural locations, as per the Government of Saskatchewan website, include registered nurses, licensed practical nurses, continuing care assistants, and nurse practitioners, among others.

The SHA said that with the recent launch of these and other recruitment and retention efforts, the SHA is hopeful to soon have these positions filled and avoid any future staffing challenges.

"Safe and compassionate care and services for long-term care residents and their families is a top priority for the SHA. The SHA continues to be focused on putting the needs of residents first."

Residents of Tatagwa View Nursing Home. File photo.