Negotiations between medical practitioners in Quebec and the provincial government have reached a standstill, just nine days after they recommenced.
Premier François Legault, on his way to the National Assembly, expressed surprise at the news unfolding and emphasized the pressing need to collaborate on finding solutions for the hundreds of thousands of Quebecers without access to a family doctor.
Following the halt in negotiations, Treasury Board President France Élaine Duranceau conveyed her disappointment with the outcome.
A spokesperson for the medical practitioners’ federation confirmed the breakdown of negotiations, citing a lack of progress and the government’s unwavering stance.
In recent developments, the Quebec government and the medical practitioners had resumed talks on Nov. 26, with FMOQ president Dr. Marc-André Amyot meeting with Premier Legault in Quebec City. The government had indicated a willingness to make adjustments to Bill 2, which has sparked widespread discontent among the medical community.
After the meeting, the FMOQ took to Facebook to highlight the urgent need for action to address the current challenges, including physicians leaving and patients facing disruptions in essential care.
Several family clinics have warned of potential closures if Bill 2 is implemented in the upcoming year, forecasting potential chaos. A survey conducted by the Journal de Montréal revealed that around 40 clinics across the province are contemplating shutting down in response to Bill 2.
