Quebec Doctors Fleeing to Ontario: Over 260 Apply in Weeks

URGENT UPDATE: A significant wave of physicians from Quebec is actively seeking to relocate to northern Ontario following the controversial passage of Bill 2, which takes effect in January 2024. Melanie Goulet, a physician recruiter with the Hearst Medical Recruitment Alliance, revealed that she is receiving numerous inquiries from Quebec doctors eager to leave, with meetings already scheduled for next week.

This surge in interest is largely due to the new legislation linking compensation to performance metrics, which many physicians believe will exacerbate existing frustrations in Quebec’s healthcare system. Already, over 260 Quebec doctors have applied for licenses to practice in Ontario, a trend that is alarming local healthcare leaders.

Dr. Doug Arnold, a family physician and chief of staff at the Timmins and District Hospital, stated, “Many physicians across Canada view this as being very short-sighted… and I think you’re seeing the backlash from the physicians as they will walk with their feet.” His sentiment reflects a growing concern about the exodus of talent from Quebec’s healthcare system.

The implications for Ontario are profound. Timmins alone requires more than 30 additional physicians to meet its healthcare needs, and recruiters are already in contact with over a dozen interested Quebec doctors. Dr. Sarah Newbery, a family physician based in Marathon and associate dean of physician and workforce strategy at NOSM University, highlighted that “I’ve been a practicing clinician for 29 years. I have never seen that degree of frustration, and frankly, sort of exodus from a particular place.”

The situation has drawn comparisons to the recent movements of physicians in the United States, particularly those affected by restrictive policies. Dr. Newbery noted that Quebec’s current climate has prompted a similar shift among physicians seeking more favorable working conditions.

For out-of-province doctors looking to practice in Ontario, the application process with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario can take several months. However, those from countries like the United Kingdom, Ireland, and Australia can expedite their licensing.

In Greater Sudbury, northern Ontario’s largest city, efforts are underway to attract physicians nationwide. Ryan Huemiuk, a business development officer for the city, stated, “We have opportunities and we’re looking to fill them. If they’re coming from Quebec or if they’re coming from Manitoba, or wherever, we are here to support.”

Health Sciences North, the second largest health services provider in Canada, boasts a French-language designation, making it an appealing option for relocating Quebec physicians. Dr. Pankaj Bhatia, chief of staff at the hospital, emphasized the importance of bilingual healthcare, stating, “What that offers is the ability to provide care in both languages and to care for a very large population of francophones.”

As this situation unfolds, communities in northern Ontario may soon see an influx of healthcare professionals eager to fill critical gaps. The ongoing developments signal a pivotal moment for both Quebec’s and Ontario’s healthcare systems, highlighting the urgent need for effective policies that retain rather than repel medical talent.

Stay tuned for more updates as this story develops.