Doctors in New Brunswick are happy with the provincial government’s new plan to do away with the unpopular billing-number system that controls where, and how many, physicians can practise in the province. The government recently announced that it would “work with doctors on alternatives to billing numbers and on payment models that encourage collaboration, wellness, […]
doctors
Tightening sanctions for physician sexual misconduct
Alberta has become the latest jurisdiction to propose stricter sanctions for physicians found guilty of sexual misconduct with patients. Health minister Sarah Hoffman introduced a bill recently that would impose mandatory penalties, require more transparency from regulatory colleges and increase support for victims. “Women, and all Albertans, deserve to feel safe when they put their […]
If Canada needs more doctors, why hasn’t medical school enrolment increased?
Enrolment in Canada’s 17 medical schools has remained flat over the past several years, at around 11,700. In contrast, enrolment in medical schools in the United States has risen by 30% since 2002–03 in response to concerns over a future shortage of doctors. So, it might seem that a simple solution to Canada’s doctor shortage […]
How many doctors do we actually need?
In many parts of Canada, there is a shortage of doctors. The New Brunswick Medical Society, for example, says the province has 39 vacancies for family physicians and 50 new positions are needed to meet demand. In British Columbia, family medicine is in “crisis mode” with shortages across the province, says Dr. Shelley Ross, cochair of Doctors […]
Are provincial medical associations taking physician mental health seriously enough?
As stories of physician burnout, depression and suicide become more common, doctors and their support networks are doing more to support those who are suffering from the unique stresses of the profession. Some within the profession, however, feel that provincial medical associations are not doing enough for their members who need help with mental health […]
CMA adopts patient focus
The Canadian Medical Association’s new three-year strategy, CMA 2020, aims to make the organization more outward-facing and patient-focused. The changes came after a period of soul-searching on what the purpose of the CMA was, and how it could best serve its members and the public, said Dr. Brian Brodie, chairman of the board of directors. “We […]