Background

In 2010, the Government of Saskatchewan released the Saskatchewan HIV Strategy 2010-2014 to address the high HIV rates in the province. The HIV Provincial Leadership Team was created to lead the implementation and monitoring of the Strategy from 2011 to 2014. The Government of Saskatchewan released the HIV Strategy Evaluation Report in June 2015.

At the completion of the four-year strategy, the Transition Leadership Team was established (September 2014) to provide guidance and advice on a governance structure to address a broad-based perspective on common issues, strategies, and clinical expertise including HIV and other related infections, such as Hepatitis C.

In August 2015, the Saskatchewan HIV Collaborative was formed. The purpose of the SK HIV Collaborative is to provide strategic guidance to the implementation of the provincial HIV work plan, including coordination and supports for the operational work of front-line staff. This includes identifying linkages to Hepatitis C, sexually transmitted infections, and Tuberculosis. Our vision is to support a culturally informed, integrated approach to infectious disease care through partnerships and enhanced and coordinated services, in order to reduce new infections and promote supportive communities for those affected by HIV and other communicable diseases.

Provincial HIV Strategy Coordinators

The HIV Strategy Coordinators work together and in collaboration with their local service area and other assigned areas, the Ministry of Health, SK HIV Collaborative, First Nations Inuit Health Branch (FNIHB), Northern Inter-Tribal Health Authority (NITHA), and other relevant stakeholders (including community-based partner organizations, peer advisors/programs, and others). The goals of the HIV Strategy Coordinators are:

  • To promote high quality, client-centred, consistent HIV care and treatment incorporating best practices and evidence-informed prevention and interventions through education, training, and support for healthcare professionals.
  • To promote high quality HIV prevention and support services in the community through provision of education and training to allied professionals, community-based organizations, peers, and the general public within relevant health service areas.
  • To encourage coordinated and effective client services through the development, implementation, and maintenance of HIV testing, case management, and multidisciplinary connections and relationships, including but not limited to physicians, nurse-practitioners, nurses, pharmacists, social workers, community-based organizations, and peers.
  • To contribute to the development and implementation of resources and tools to assist practitioners in delivering high-quality care.

For further information or to arrange for supplemental educational opportunities, please contact the HIV Strategy Coordinator nearest to your location:

La Ronge
Maro Villa, RN, BScN
North Battleford
Kelly Greenwald, RN, BScN
Prince Albert
Paulette Martin, RN

Regina
Laurel Stang, RN (acting)

Saskatoon
Tegan Pfefferle, RN, BScN

Yorkton
Deanna Bartok, RN, BScN, CCHN(C)

First Nations & Inuit Health Branch, Saskatchewan Region
Andrea Wiebe, RN
Northern Inter-Tribal Health Authority
Jessie Depeel, RN, BScN