A new special law introduced in Quebec aims to regulate doctor remuneration and impose penalties for reduced working hours. The legislation, which was presented on Friday, is part of the government’s effort to reform the healthcare system while preventing potential backlash.
Key Features of the Special Law
- The law outlines remuneration through various methods, including capitation, hourly rates, and additional pay for specific services.
- Penalties will be enforced for doctors who collectively reduce their working hours.
- Activities considered as reduction include decreasing professional activity, impacting healthcare access, hindering student training, or leaving the public system.
Penalties for Non-Compliance
The law outlines significant penalties for doctors who violate these regulations. For example, a physician engaging in any of the specified activities could face a reduction of practice by half a year for each day of participation in these actions. Additionally, unions could have their special dues withheld as a consequence of non-compliance.
Government’s Stance on Healthcare Reform
The Quebec government, led by Premier François Legault, is prioritizing these reforms to prevent an exodus from the public healthcare system. The move to regulate private tariffs is expected to discourage physicians from leaving public healthcare for private practice.
Health Minister Christian Dubé is scheduled to comment on these new measures in a press briefing. Further details regarding these regulations and their implications for the healthcare sector will be provided shortly.
