A Saskatchewan union representing more than 30 professions said there is a major need for more midwife positions within the province [1].

The shortage affects the availability of maternal care options for residents. Increasing the number of funded positions could expand access to midwifery services across the province's diverse regions.

Currently, there are 16 provincially funded midwife positions [1]. Additionally, there are five federally funded positions available [1]. These numbers represent the total current capacity for funded midwifery care in the region.

Union representatives said there is a gap between current staffing levels and the actual needs of the population. The lack of positions limits the ability of qualified professionals to provide essential care, a situation that persists despite the evident need for more practitioners.

"There's clearly a demand," a union representative said [1].

The union continues to advocate for a funding model that reflects the demand for these services. By increasing the number of positions, the province could better support maternal health, and provide more choices for expecting parents.

“"There's clearly a demand"”

The disparity between the small number of funded positions and the expressed demand suggests a systemic gap in Saskatchewan's maternal healthcare infrastructure. If the province does not increase funding for these roles, it may continue to rely on a limited pool of providers, potentially restricting patient access to midwifery as a primary care option.