The government of Québec has issued a final offer and ultimatum regarding ongoing doctor negotiations. The Fédération des médecins spécialistes du Québec (FMSQ) rejected this proposal, seeking non-binding arbitration instead.
Details of the Final Offer
On Wednesday, the Québec government presented a comprehensive offer to medical federations. Key elements included:
- Hiring 500 healthcare professionals in family medicine groups (GMFs) this year.
- Another 500 professionals in the following year.
- Opening surgical blocks to increase operational capacity.
- Linking the salaries of CEOs of healthcare institutions to performance indicators.
This proposal was referred to as a “final” and “non-negotiable” offer. The government urged medical federations to return to negotiations by Thursday morning, citing an “urgent need for action.”
Response from Medical Federations
Dr. Vincent Oliva, president of the FMSQ, dismissed the offer as insubstantial, calling it a mere rehash of previous proposals. He stated, “We were astonished to find no new content in the offer.” Along with negotiator Me Lucien Bouchard, Oliva expressed dissatisfaction, implying the government’s insistence on the old terms was frustrating.
The FMSQ suggested non-binding arbitration as a solution, seeking an independent expert to provide a fresh perspective. However, Health Minister Christian Dubé rejected this proposal, arguing it would be too costly for Quebecers.
Ultimatum from the Government
Dubé emphasized the urgency in addressing the needs of patients waiting for specialist appointments. He stated, “Quebecers are tired of waiting for specialist consultations or urgent care.” The government believes returning to negotiations is essential for resolving these issues.
Current Impasses in Negotiations
The FMSQ has been enacting pressure tactics since September 15, refusing to teach medical students. This has compounded the urgency for resolution as the government contemplates legislation to address the actions affecting medical education.
The offered remuneration structure remains largely unchanged, maintaining a near freeze at $5 billion over five years. Proposed budgets for the subsequent years suggest only slight reductions.
Additional Resources Proposed by Québec
In an effort to enhance healthcare delivery, Québec plans to invest additional funds, including:
- $50 million to increase GMF funding starting in 2026.
- $100 million annually over four years to extend surgical availability.
- Adding 40 million annually for ten years for healthcare IT resource enhancement.
These measures aim to bolster support for health professionals and improve operational capacities for the healthcare system.
Conclusion and Next Steps
The response from the Fédération des médecins omnipraticiens du Québec (FMOQ) is pending as they evaluate the government’s ultimatum. Their statement indicated a desire for thorough analysis before making public comments on the non-negotiable offer from the government.
The situation remains fluid, with the potential for further developments in negotiations as both sides work toward a resolution.
