Perfusionist Career Profile

What is a Perfusionist?

A Perfusionist is a health-care professional that primarily works with cardiac (heart) surgeons, anesthesiologists and other members of the operating room team. Their primary role is maintain a patient's respiration, circulation and physiological state, using state-of-the-art equipment like the heart-lung machine during surgery. Perfusionists are also trained to administer blood products and drugs based on their scope of practice. Perfusionists play a key role in the operating room and as a specialized health-care professional, they often need to provide on call and emergency coverage support for the operating team.

What is it like working as a Perfusionist at the Saskatchewan Health Authority?

Perfusionists who work at the Saskatchewan Health Authority (SHA) work with interprofessional members of the operating room teams in Saskatoon and Regina. Perfusionists work in shifts to cover the needs of the operating room as well as emergency on call coverage. Incentives of up to $100,000 is available for Perfusionists looking to work with the SHA.

What can I earn as a Perfusionist?

•  $50.83 - $62.01

In addition to the pay band, standby rates of $7.50 per hour, Enhanced Dental and Health benefits and vacation packages are included.

Perfusionists working with the SHA are unionized employees and are members of the following union

• Health Sciences Association of Saskatchewan

How do I become a Perfusionist?

To work as a Perfusionist, you will require an advanced certificate or diploma in Cardiovascular Perfusion. There are no training programs in Saskatchewan however the province does have seats reserved for Saskatchewan students at the British Columbia Institute of Technology (BCIT). Below are the available programs in Canada:

• British Columbia Institute of Technology - Cardiovascular Perfusion - Advanced Certificate
• The Michener Institute - Cardiovascular Perfusion Program