Quebec Bill 83: Mandating Public Care for New Doctors

Quebec's Health Minister Christian Dubé has introduced Bill 83, which mandates that new doctors trained in Quebec universities must work in the public health network for their first five years, with fines as high as $200,000 per day for non-compliance. The bill aims to address the 70% increase in doctors moving to the private sector since 2020 by ensuring public access to care funded by taxpayer dollars. This legislative move has received general support from opposition parties and the Quebec College of Physicians, who suggest restrictions on private practice for new graduates. However, critics including medical student representatives have expressed concerns about potential impacts on residency placements and deterrence of prospective students. Premier François Legault has long advocated for measures to prevent new doctors from transitioning to private practice or leaving the province. The proposal will be reviewed in January 2025.