The professional body regulating the practice of medicine in Saskatchewan is set to receive enhanced powers to investigate and prosecute individuals and organizations operating without a license. The provincial government has tabled an amendment to the Medical Profession Act, which, if passed, will significantly increase penalties and grant new investigative tools to the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Saskatchewan (CPSS).
Under the current legislation, the maximum fine for corporations found guilty of practising medicine without a licence is $5,000. The proposed amendment would raise this amount to $50,000 for a first offence and $100,000 for subsequent violations. Individuals would face an initial fine of $25,000, doubling to $50,000 for repeat offences. Bryan Salte, associate registrar and legal counsel for the CPSS, emphasized that the existing provisions lack effective measures to address concerns about unlicensed medical practice.
New Investigative Powers
The amendment also grants the CPSS the authority to search and seize documents relevant to investigations and to seek court orders compelling witnesses to testify. This represents a significant expansion of the regulatory body's capabilities. Salte noted that the CPSS has not issued a fine in the past two decades, as most breaches are resolved with written warnings. However, the new powers are intended to provide a stronger deterrent and more effective enforcement.
Support from Opposition
Health Minister Jeremy Cockrill expressed confidence that the bill will pass in the legislature and come into force this spring. He stated that the amendment provides the college with the necessary tools to investigate and penalize illegal medical practice. The NDP's Jared Clarke indicated that the official Opposition is likely to support the bill, provided it adequately protects Saskatchewan residents.
The proposed changes come amid ongoing efforts to ensure patient safety and uphold professional standards in healthcare. The CPSS believes the new measures are appropriately drafted and will enable it to seek injunctions against those engaged in unauthorized medical activities.
