Opioid Stewardship Program receives 2025 SHA Impact Innovation Award
The Opioid Stewardship Team has received the 2025 SHA Impact Innovation Award for deploying two innovative tools to improve patient pain management and reduce risk.
The Pharmaceutical Automated Reporting (PAR) Tool, developed in-house, identifies patients at a higher risk for opioid-related complications. The Opioid Review and Optimization (MORE) Tool standardizes assessments, care planning, and documentation. Together, these tools help care teams to intervene earlier, provide tailored supports, and reduce reliance on reactive referrals.
“We’re making a difference—and we’re seeing it every day,” said Leland Sommer, Clinical Lead - Stewardship and Clinical Appropriateness, SHA. “By putting in the data and using it meaningfully, we’re not just improving care—we’re building better teams, removing barriers, and placing the right people in the right places. Saskatchewan is the only province addressing opioid stewardship at a provincial level, and that’s something to be proud of.”
Early identification and intervention has led to a dramatic improvement in patient pain control and overall function, promoting safer transitions home.
This initiative is a shining example of how leveraging real-time data and clinical insight can improve outcomes, enhance safety, and support better patient journeys throughout the health system. It also underscores the tangible benefits of aligning with SHA CARES values, particularly the commitment to safety, in advancing quality patient care.
Congratulations to this dedicated team on their Innovation Award!
