Quebec family doctors have halted teaching medical students, while medical specialists have suspended mediation due to stalled negotiations with the provincial government. The primary point of contention is Bill 106, a proposal aiming to tie physicians’ pay to performance metrics to encourage them to take on more patients.
The Fédération des médecins spécialistes du Québec (FMSQ), representing medical specialists, ceased teaching undergraduate students and supervising their clinical placements in protest last month. Following suit, the Fédération des médecins omnipraticiens du Québec (FMOQ), representing family doctors, has now initiated a teaching boycott.
The FMOQ has requested arbitration to resolve the conflict, pledging to accept the arbitration’s outcomes. Simultaneously, negotiations with medical specialists have hit a roadblock, prompting the FMSQ to announce the suspension of mediation.
In a letter to its members, FMSQ President Dr. Vincent Oliva stated that negotiations would resume only if the government assures that negotiators have the freedom to progress without interference. The FMSQ plans to discuss further pressure tactics on October 20.
Health Minister Christian Dubé and Treasury Board President France-Élaine Duranceau expressed disappointment over the FMOQ’s decision and reiterated the government’s willingness to negotiate for the benefit of all Quebecers. Dr. Marc-André Amyot, FMOQ President, accused the government of negotiating in bad faith and emphasized the need for fair negotiations.
Despite ongoing disagreements, Bill 106 proposes a mixed remuneration model that includes capitation payments, hourly rates, and fee-for-service, with pay linked to collective performance targets. While the government supports the bill, medical students fear graduation delays due to the ongoing dispute.
The FMOQ and FMSQ continue to advocate for fair negotiations that consider the complexities of medical practice beyond clinical appointments.
