Saskatchewan's provincial auditor has outlined recommendations to reduce the province's reliance on expensive travel nurses, a move that could save millions in healthcare spending. In a report released June 24, 2026, the auditor highlighted that travel nurse costs reached $150 million in the 2025-26 fiscal year, a figure that has drawn scrutiny amid ongoing budget pressures.
Auditor's Key Recommendations
The auditor suggests that the Saskatchewan Health Authority (SHA) improve workforce planning to minimize the need for external staffing. This includes better forecasting of staffing shortages and investing in recruitment and retention of permanent nursing staff. The report notes that travel nurses cost up to three times more than permanent staff, making them a significant budget drain.
According to the auditor, "The SHA must develop a comprehensive strategy to reduce dependency on travel nurses, focusing on local hiring and improved scheduling." The report also calls for better data collection to track the effectiveness of these measures.
Impact on Healthcare Budget
The $150 million spent on travel nurses represents a substantial portion of the province's healthcare budget. The auditor argues that redirecting these funds to permanent staffing could improve continuity of care and reduce overall costs. In 2025, Saskatchewan spent $350 million on wildfire response, highlighting the need for fiscal discipline across all departments.
Health Minister Paul Merriman acknowledged the report, stating, "We are committed to reviewing these recommendations and working with the SHA to find efficiencies." However, he emphasized that patient care remains the top priority.
Broader Context
The reliance on travel nurses is not unique to Saskatchewan; many provinces have turned to agency staff amid nationwide nursing shortages. The COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated the issue, leading to increased burnout and retirements among healthcare workers. Saskatchewan's auditor hopes these recommendations will serve as a model for other jurisdictions.
The report also suggests exploring long-term care alternatives and expanding the scope of practice for other healthcare professionals to alleviate pressure on nurses. The SHA is expected to respond within 90 days with a plan to implement the changes.
