Quebec’s family doctors are locked in a bitter combat with their government. They all become vehement opponents of a terrible, controversial bill that drastically alters their compensation structure. Their new legislation, modeled on Russia’s anti–union legislation, penalizes “concerted action” by physicians against government policies with fines of 20,000 dollars per day. This extreme policy has spurred fire and fury from physicians across the country. Despite the bipartisan support, many physicians say the bill will in practice slash their salaries. This decision has resulted in significant anger throughout the entire healthcare community.
Quebec’s medical specialists are preparing to bring their own legal challenge to the practice. In the end, both groups agree that the bill unnecessarily violates individual freedoms. The deteriorating political situation has more and more Quebec doctors examining their options to move out of the province. They’re following the lead of provinces such as Ontario and New Brunswick that have improved working conditions and compensation.
We know this is true because Ontario Premier Doug Ford has literally made an open public call to these doctors, urging them to come and cross provincial lines. “Call 1-800-Doug Ford, all the docs and come by, call me on my cellphone, it’s on the internet,” Ford stated, emphasizing his willingness to assist them in the transition. He highlighted that Ontario intends to “roll out the red carpet” for healthcare workers. Innovation fuels our economy but creating jobs has never been more competitive. That’s why B.C.
Recent data shows that the number of Quebec doctors applying for licenses in New Brunswick has seen a notable increase. Previously, applications sat in the low single digits year-round. This year, for the first time, that’s changing in an incredible wave of excitement! The New Brunswick College of Physicians has reported this uptick, reflecting a growing trend among Quebec medical professionals seeking employment elsewhere.
The College of Physicians of Ontario (CPSO) reported receiving 19 applications from Quebec doctors. That’s exactly what happened between June 1 and October 22. Healthcare workers are out here fighting for improved conditions and support. This surge in interest fits into a greater pattern of migration in the healthcare industry.
On a net basis, in January and August 2023, three Quebec doctors moved to Ontario per month. This month, the total has ballooned to 34. This change underlines a dramatic uptick in the movement of medical professionals between provincial borders.
Premier Francois Legault of Quebec vehemently denounced Ford’s remarks, saying they were “totally unacceptable.” He contended that those comments represent “a total absence of oversight.” He spoke at length about the need for provinces to be united. He made a point to assert that this is not the time to be “denigrating” each other within the healthcare community.
In New Brunswick, Health Minister John Dornan was very optimistic about the situation. He added that provinces need to promote their strengths, but not use enticements, like increased salaries, to attract already trained doctors. He noted that Quebec doctors see New Brunswick as a viable option where they can work in a respectful environment and collaborate effectively within healthcare teams.
Dr. Margot Burnell, then president of the Canadian Medical Association, made her concerns clear. She fears that what’s now an ugly court fight might result in a permanent loss of doctors across Canada. She pointed to a necessary inter-provincial collaboration to build and shore up the systems they share while facing their parallel healthcare system challenges.
“We all have major challenges in improving our health care systems in all provinces. This is not the time for provinces to be undermining each other. It’s time to work together.” – Premier Francois Legault
As the situation develops, many stakeholders continue to monitor the impact of these policy changes on healthcare availability and quality in Quebec and beyond. The Canadian Medical Association and Ontario Medical Association have been sounding the alarm over this standoff. They think it can have a huge effect, both for physicians and patients.
