Beck’s visit comes as Saskatchewan continues to face the worst healthcare staffing crisis in the country, with long ER wait times, bed closures, and burnout driving workers out of the province.
“This government has asked healthcare workers to shoulder the weight of its mismanagement,” Beck said ahead of the meeting. “They haven’t seen a raise in three years. Staffing shortages are off the charts because of it. And instead of listening, the Sask. Party keeps making things worse.”
Beck echoed the calls of the workers to listen to the frontlines, end the wage freezes, and ensure safe staffing levels in hospitals and health centres across the province.
“We need to take care of the people who take care of us,” Beck added. “A better future is worth the fight.”
According to Saskatchewan Health Authority data obtained through freedom of information request, the Weyburn hospital has experienced repeated service closures since August 2022.
Basic radiography and laboratory services were closed on five separate occasions — including one 20-day stretch. Ultrasound services have shut down 16 times, including a 56-day closure. There have also been service closures to diagnostic imaging and the emergency room.
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