Quebec's Health Minister, Sonia Bélanger, has introduced a new bill to address the contentious issue of doctors' pay, following the potential closure of clinics and the departure of general practitioners (GPs) to other provinces due to previous reforms. The bill, known as Bill 19, aims to formalize a tentative agreement reached with family physicians in December, ensuring vulnerable patients receive direct medical attention. This agreement includes a voluntary performance target for family doctors and groups (GMFs) to take on 500,000 patients by June 30, with incentives totaling $76 million. The deal also outlines a compensation structure for physicians, splitting their pay 50/30/20, with a 14.5% increase by 2028. Negotiations with medical specialists are ongoing, and the government remains open to further bills to address potential agreements with the specialists' federation. Critics question the bill's ability to prevent doctors from leaving the public sector, while others highlight the government's willingness to cooperate and resolve contentious measures.
