Health P.E.I. has reported a 10% increase in its physician workforce over the last two years, raising the total number of doctors in all specialties from 292 to 320. During a recent legislative standing committee meeting, Health P.E.I. CEO Melanie Fraser discussed the agency’s efforts in physician recruitment and retention.
Fraser highlighted the progress made since her arrival 18 months ago, emphasizing the significant vacancies in the health system at that time. She noted that while improvements may not happen as quickly as desired, Health P.E.I. leads the country in the rise and retention of family physicians, as per data from the Canadian Institute for Health Information.
The number of family physicians practicing on the Island has grown from 101 in 2023 to 110 by October 1 this year. Additionally, Health P.E.I. has extended offers to potential hires, with ongoing efforts to boost these numbers further. Fraser mentioned that leveraging systematic enhancements and competitive compensation has enabled the province to attract more physicians, hiring 28 new doctors and connecting 6,500 Islanders with primary care providers since January.
The nurse practitioner workforce in P.E.I. has expanded by 28% since 2023, with 14 new hires since June last year. Nurse practitioners play crucial roles across various healthcare settings, including emergency departments, ICUs, and primary care teams. Approximately 60% of the nurse practitioners in P.E.I. are engaged in primary care services.
Furthermore, Health P.E.I. has made headway in recruiting physician assistants, with five currently employed on the Island and four awaiting licensing to commence work. The agency has adopted a proactive approach to hiring frontline staff to enhance healthcare services statewide, encompassing various roles from nurses and office administrators to physiotherapists and cooks. Overall, Health P.E.I.’s workforce has grown by over 13% since 2023.
Green Party Leader Matt MacFarlane raised concerns regarding Health P.E.I.’s relationship with the Medical Society of P.E.I., particularly in light of ongoing mediation discussions involving operational guidelines for family doctors. Fraser assured that constructive dialogues are ongoing with the medical society to address concerns and reach resolutions.
Despite challenges in recruiting psychologists due to high national demand, Health P.E.I. remains committed to attracting top healthcare professionals. Modern marketing strategies, data analysis, and enhanced compensation packages are part of the efforts to entice individuals to practice on the Island.
Looking ahead, Fraser emphasized the need for P.E.I. to remain competitive in healthcare staff recruitment, given the national physician shortage. Streamlining the hiring process and attending numerous recruitment events annually are among the strategies employed to attract talent to the province. Updated compensation packages, benefits, and improved recruitment practices aim to make Health P.E.I. a desirable workplace for healthcare professionals across Canada and internationally.