Family doctors in Quebec are taking a stand in contract negotiations with the government by halting their supervision of medical students and residents. The Federation of General Practitioners of Quebec (FMOQ), representing around 10,000 family doctors, has decided to escalate pressure on the Legault government.
The FMOQ asserts that the government’s lack of flexibility and push for Bill 106, which ties doctor remuneration to performance metrics, are major hurdles in negotiations. Dr. Michael Kalin, a Montreal family doctor, emphasized the importance of standing up against the bill for the sake of future patients.
Amid the dispute, medical students are feeling the impact as courses with family doctors have been suspended since mid-September. Ryan Kara, president of the McGill University Medical Student Society, expressed concerns about potential delays in graduating if negotiations are not resolved promptly.
With the situation intensifying, the federation is now advocating for independent arbitration to address the impasse. Dr. Kalin highlighted the critical issue of doctor shortages in Montreal, emphasizing the need to address the root problem of limited access to healthcare.
Medical students, like Nicolas Dostie, president of the Association of Medical Students at Université de Montréal (AEEMUM), are worried about the potential repercussions of the ongoing conflict on their education and the future of Quebec’s healthcare system.
On the government’s side, there is a statement expressing regret over the FMOQ’s actions, with assurances of readiness to negotiate. The government’s goal remains focused on ensuring all Quebecers have access to family doctors or appropriate medical care facilities.
Keyphrase: Quebec family doctors negotiations
