Over 50% of Saskatchewan Nurses Consider Leaving Profession

A recent survey reveals that more than 50% of registered nurses in Saskatchewan are contemplating leaving the healthcare profession. The findings, released by the Saskatchewan Union of Nurses (SUN), stem from an April 2025 survey conducted by Praxis Analytics, which included responses from 1,791 nurses across the province.

According to the survey, approximately 53% of the participants indicated they would consider departing from their roles, while about 46% expressed intentions to remain. Alarmingly, 96% of those surveyed reported that short staffing has frequently resulted in longer wait times for medical services.

Concerns Over Healthcare System

During a press conference, NDP MLA Jared Clarke emphasized the troubling implications of the survey results. “Nearly 80% say short staffing has unnecessarily led to patients’ health deteriorating,” Clarke noted. He described the findings as “shocking” and indicative of an ongoing crisis in the healthcare system, asserting that “the system is broken.”

Clarke criticized the Saskatchewan government’s management of healthcare, claiming that after 18 years in power, the situation has worsened. He pointed to the exodus of healthcare professionals from the province and the government’s failure to fulfill promises, such as maintaining 24/7 urgent care. Clarke argued for the establishment of a nursing task force to address the concerns of healthcare workers and advocate for systemic improvements. “It’s been ten months, and the nursing task force hasn’t happened yet. Why?” he asked.

Impact of Burnout and Staffing Shortages

Bryce Boynton, President of SUN, echoed the sentiment regarding the survey’s alarming statistics. He highlighted that one in four nurses could retire immediately if they chose to do so. Boynton attributed the high turnover consideration to chronic understaffing and burnout among healthcare professionals. “They’re burnt out, they’re tired,” he stated. “They came into this profession looking to make a difference… and they’re just not able to do that.”

The lack of resources and support for frontline workers is a recurring theme in discussions surrounding the healthcare system in Saskatchewan. Boynton’s comments reflect a growing concern over the welfare of both patients and healthcare providers.

As the situation unfolds, CTV News has sought comments from provincial officials regarding the survey findings and the statements issued by SUN and the NDP. The call for urgent action in addressing healthcare challenges in Saskatchewan continues to resonate among both healthcare professionals and the public.