Health Minister Christian Dubé addressed concerns about a new law affecting doctors during an appearance on the show “Tout le monde en parle” on Sunday night.
Dubé assured the public and medical professionals that he is committed to providing clearer explanations of the bill in the days ahead. He faced a gathering of hundreds of dissatisfied doctors outside Radio-Canada in Montreal.
The newly adopted law not only changes how doctors are paid, including tying compensation to meeting performance targets, but also prohibits doctors from taking actions that could disrupt patient care and training, with heavy penalties for violations.
During his interview with host Guy A. Lepage, Dubé acknowledged the anger among doctors, admitting that negotiations started on a contentious note. Despite the challenges, he emphasized the government’s responsibility to act promptly for the benefit of patients, especially highlighting the impact of doctors halting teaching activities.
Dubé defended the necessity of the law, citing the urgent need for action. He mentioned that the law includes provisions in case dissatisfied doctors consider moving to the private sector.
Both the Quebec Federation of Medical Specialists (FMSQ) and the Quebec Federation of General Practitioners (FMOQ) have voiced plans to challenge the law in court.
