News
October 26, 2025
Western Quebec physicians eye up Ottawa as province forces new deal
More than two dozen doctors in the Outaouais say they’re considering leaving their practices and beginning new ones in Ontario, with one saying the Quebec...
**Western Quebec physicians eye up Ottawa as province forces new deal**
A significant number of doctors in the Outaouais region of western Quebec are seriously contemplating a move across the provincial border to Ottawa, Ontario, citing dissatisfaction with a newly imposed agreement by the Quebec government. More than two dozen physicians are reportedly exploring options to relocate their practices, potentially leaving a void in healthcare services for the Quebec residents they currently serve.
The growing discontent stems from the details of the new deal, which, according to one physician, has created an environment that makes practicing medicine in Quebec less attractive. While specific details of the agreement remain undisclosed, it is understood to impact aspects of their work, potentially including compensation structures, administrative burdens, or the level of autonomy they have in patient care.
The proximity of Ottawa makes it a particularly appealing alternative for these doctors. A move would allow them to continue serving patients in the National Capital Region, often a shared community, while operating under a different provincial healthcare system. This potential shift has sparked concerns about a possible exodus of medical professionals from Quebec, further straining the province's healthcare resources.
The situation highlights the ongoing challenges faced by provincial governments in attracting and retaining healthcare professionals, particularly in regions bordering other provinces with potentially more favorable working conditions. The availability of quality healthcare is a crucial issue for residents, and the prospect of losing experienced physicians is causing anxiety within the Outaouais community.
The Quebec government has yet to publicly address the concerns raised by the physicians. The coming weeks will be crucial in determining whether a resolution can be reached to prevent this potential migration of doctors and ensure the continued provision of adequate medical services for the population of western Quebec. Further dialogue and negotiation between the government and the medical community are essential to address the underlying issues and find a mutually agreeable path forward. The impact of this situation on patient care in both Quebec and potentially Ontario remains to be seen.
A significant number of doctors in the Outaouais region of western Quebec are seriously contemplating a move across the provincial border to Ottawa, Ontario, citing dissatisfaction with a newly imposed agreement by the Quebec government. More than two dozen physicians are reportedly exploring options to relocate their practices, potentially leaving a void in healthcare services for the Quebec residents they currently serve.
The growing discontent stems from the details of the new deal, which, according to one physician, has created an environment that makes practicing medicine in Quebec less attractive. While specific details of the agreement remain undisclosed, it is understood to impact aspects of their work, potentially including compensation structures, administrative burdens, or the level of autonomy they have in patient care.
The proximity of Ottawa makes it a particularly appealing alternative for these doctors. A move would allow them to continue serving patients in the National Capital Region, often a shared community, while operating under a different provincial healthcare system. This potential shift has sparked concerns about a possible exodus of medical professionals from Quebec, further straining the province's healthcare resources.
The situation highlights the ongoing challenges faced by provincial governments in attracting and retaining healthcare professionals, particularly in regions bordering other provinces with potentially more favorable working conditions. The availability of quality healthcare is a crucial issue for residents, and the prospect of losing experienced physicians is causing anxiety within the Outaouais community.
The Quebec government has yet to publicly address the concerns raised by the physicians. The coming weeks will be crucial in determining whether a resolution can be reached to prevent this potential migration of doctors and ensure the continued provision of adequate medical services for the population of western Quebec. Further dialogue and negotiation between the government and the medical community are essential to address the underlying issues and find a mutually agreeable path forward. The impact of this situation on patient care in both Quebec and potentially Ontario remains to be seen.
Category:
Politics