An escalating labor dispute in Quebec may benefit New Brunswick’s efforts in physician recruitment. The government under François Legault has been in conflict with doctors over compensation, culminating in the passage of a bill that doctors oppose. Consequently, New Brunswick is witnessing a surge in interest from Quebec physicians seeking to practice in the province.
Traditionally, the New Brunswick College of Physicians and Surgeons receives three to four license applications from Quebec monthly. However, in October, there was a notable increase in this number. As of the latest update, 40 doctors have applied to practice in New Brunswick this month alone.
Moreover, Vitalité Health Network has noted a recent rise in informal expressions of interest from Quebec doctors considering employment with the Francophone health authority. Dr. Lise Babin, President of the New Brunswick Medical Society, described the situation in Quebec as alarming and untenable for doctors. She emphasized that New Brunswick is open to welcoming physicians from across the country, acknowledging the challenges faced by out-of-province colleagues.
Premier Susan Holt expressed support for recruiting Quebec doctors amid the ongoing conflict, citing the nationwide shortage of physicians and the competitiveness in attracting them. Health Minister John Dornan highlighted the positive progress in negotiations with physicians in New Brunswick, contrasting it with the situation in Quebec. He indicated that recruiting doctors from Quebec is a natural choice given New Brunswick’s bilingual nature.
Both Quebec and New Brunswick are engaged in negotiations over compensation agreements with physicians. Despite the challenges faced in Quebec, New Brunswick is positioning itself as an attractive option for physicians looking to relocate.