Cardiologists and heart surgeons in Quebec are sounding the alarm about a personnel shortage, particularly in the perfusionist field. This deficiency in essential workers responsible for maintaining patients’ lives during heart surgeries is leading to delays and, tragically, fatalities.
Dr. Bernard Cantin, the president of the Quebec Association of Cardiologists, expressed deep concern over the situation, revealing that around 80 individuals have lost their lives over the past year and a half while awaiting surgery. The role of perfusionists, although not widely recognized, is critical during cardiac procedures in Canada. They operate the heart-lung machine, which substitutes for the heart and lungs during lengthy surgeries, ensuring the patient’s blood is oxygenated and circulated throughout the operation.
Currently, Canada has approximately 375 perfusionists, with about 40 vacant positions and over 60 expected retirements within the next five years, as reported by the Canadian Society of Clinical Perfusion. In Quebec alone, out of the 92 perfusionist roles, only 70 are occupied, exacerbating the already strained healthcare system. Despite warnings issued to the government since 2019 about the growing surgical waitlists, little action has been taken. The associations of cardiologists and cardiovascular and thoracic surgeons are now planning to escalate their concerns by filing a complaint with the province’s ombudsman.
Recent data from Quebec indicates that over 1,300 patients were awaiting cardiac surgery as of August 23, with nearly 65% exceeding the acceptable wait times set by the province. While Quebec’s Health Ministry downplays the impact of perfusionist shortages on surgery cancellations, the medical community insists that these staffing issues have significantly contributed to the backlog and unmet demand for surgeries.
The staffing challenges extend beyond Quebec, with other provinces facing similar difficulties. Naresh Tinani, a senior cardiovascular perfusionist and acting president of the Canadian Society of Clinical Perfusion, highlighted the profession’s low profile, demanding schedules, and wage disparities as factors hindering recruitment and retention efforts nationwide. Quebec, in particular, is experiencing heightened strain due to a higher outflow of perfusionists to other regions, including the United States.
Yannick Pinard, president of the Quebec Perfusionists Association, emphasized the escalating struggles in recruiting and retaining perfusionists within the province. Despite these challenges, the government asserts its commitment to addressing the recruitment and retention obstacles in the healthcare sector.
Efforts are being made in some provinces to expand training opportunities for perfusionists. Institutions like the Université de Montréal, the British Columbia Institute of Technology, and the Michener Institute in Toronto offer programs to train future perfusionists. Dr. Michael O’Leary from the Michener Institute expressed concerns about the profession’s recruitment and the critical role perfusionists play in the operating room.
Maintaining patients on waitlists remains a pressing issue, with concerns over patient safety and outcomes. Tragically, individuals like Debbie Fewster from Manitoba have succumbed while awaiting surgery, underscoring the urgent need for improved transparency and efficiency in the healthcare system.
In conclusion, addressing the persistent staff shortages, improving working conditions, and enhancing recruitment strategies are vital steps to mitigate the adverse impact of perfusionist deficiencies on patient care and outcomes in the healthcare sector.
