An escalating labor dispute in Quebec is sparking interest among physicians in New Brunswick. The Quebec government’s clash with doctors over compensation has intensified as it pushed through a bill in the Quebec National Assembly that doctors oppose.
This conflict has led to a surge in Quebec physicians exploring opportunities in New Brunswick. The New Brunswick College of Physicians and Surgeons, which typically receives three to four license applications from Quebec monthly, witnessed a significant increase in applications in October.
As of the latest update, 40 doctors have applied this month to practice in New Brunswick. The Vitalité Health Network also noted a rise in informal expressions of interest from doctors considering employment with the Francophone health authority.
Dr. Lise Babin, President of the New Brunswick Medical Society, expressed concern over the challenging situation for Quebec doctors, referring to it as “extremely alarming.” The medical society is open to welcoming physicians from across the country but aims not to exploit the difficulties faced by out-of-province colleagues.
Vitalité has launched an advertising campaign targeting Quebec doctors attending a medical conference in Montreal. Premier Susan Holt believes it is reasonable to recruit Quebec doctors given the nationwide shortage and competition for physicians.
New Brunswick, like Quebec, has been in negotiations with physicians over remuneration. Health Minister John Dornan highlighted positive progress in discussions with New Brunswick physicians and hinted at potential recruitment from Quebec due to the favorable conditions in the bilingual province.