After over two years of negotiations with the Quebec government, the province's specialist doctors have finally reached a deal on a new framework agreement. The previous agreement expired on March 31st, 2023.

The new framework agreement was ratified during a special general meeting, and over 125 delegates agreed upon the new framework.

According to the Fédération des médecins spécialistes du Québec (FMSQ) president Vincent Oliva, this agreement was a victory.

"The renewal of our framework agreement is the result of two years of hard work, mobilization, and collective determination", says Oliva.

The new deal was voted in by Quebec's medical specialist, wherein 86 percent voted for the agreement. The agreement holds the following changes:

  • An 11% increase in the envelope (first pay increase specialists have received since 2012) the federation uses to pay members.
  • It is a 5-year collective agreement that will tie two percent of the overall envelope to increase collective targets. Specialists have also agreed to 80,000 new appointments, which represents a 10 per cent increase.
  • The FMSQ has also agreed to government targets for a reduction of the number of cancer patients waiting for surgery for more than 56 days, and for patients waiting for more than a year to see specialists.
  • Around $140 million will also be designated for the improvement of access to specialized care in areas such as geriatrics, neurology, alternatives to hospitalization, and mental health.
  • $900 million will also be invested to increase surgical capacity by 45,000 by 2028-29. The budget will also be used to increase clinical and administrative staffing as well as digitize appointments.
  • Around 5 percent of the envelope increase will be used for the reduction of income gaps between lower-paid and higher-paid specialties.
  • Another 3 percent of the envelope will be used to support medical clinics in key costs such as rising rent and staff salaries, as well as another 1 percent dedicated to funding research.

This agreement between the FMSQ and the Quebec provincial government will have positive effects on the relationship between the Quebec government and its healthcare organizations.

Although there has been progress between the Quebec government and its healthcare organizations, some doctors are still looking to transfer to other provinces for employment opportunities. If you are a qualified doctor who is looking for a clinic in other provinces, you should try Physicians for You! Our company has friendly and experienced recruiters who can help you find a clinic that will fit your specifications.