2024-11-04 17:47:00
The Minister of Health, Christian Dubé, wants not only to force new doctors to work in the public network at the end of their studies, but also to put an end to the expansion of the private health network in Quebec.
• Also read: Private health: the College of Physicians calls for more rigorous supervision
• Also read: Quebec wants to force new doctors trained in the province to practice in the public after their studies
This is what he said in an interview with Hi Hello Monday morning.
Earlier in the morning, the president of the College of Physicians, Dr. Mauril Gaudreault, indicated in an interview that he wanted an end to public funding for the private network.
“Supporting studies demonstrate that private financing of health services does not improve access nor does it reduce costs,” he said.
“So, it is after having also discussed with experts in the field, analyzed the studies in question that the College of Physicians decided to take this position to alert, challenge political decision-makers and that we all look together at how we could better supervise the private sector.”
Asked to comment, the Minister of Health said he agreed with the end of the expansion of the private sector in the health network.
“I hope so,” he says. I tell you, I really have that will.”
However, Mr. Dubé indicates that he needs, for the moment, the private sector.
“We are in a period of transition at the moment,” he said. I need as many people as possible who can help. My key word is to regulate the private sector, but strengthen the public sector.”
«[Arrêter de développer le privé]I agree with that, he adds. But right now, when I have 160,000 surgeries waiting, I have some that are more than a year old… I have no choice until my nurses come back.
Force new doctors to practice in the public
TVA Nouvelles also revealed on Sunday the intention of the Minister of Health to force doctors to practice their profession in the public network when they leave school.
“I think there is a certain consensus among the population that we must take all necessary measures to improve access to a doctor, to a health professional,” he maintains.
“I think that what is logical towards Quebecers is to say that we pay for this training, which is very important, but let us also ensure that you will be there when it is time to deliver the training,” he continues.
The bill to this effect will be tabled before the end of the current parliamentary session.
“We will never have time to discuss it [avant la fin de la session]so we file, says Mr. Dubé. People will talk about it, like we are doing today. Then when we return to the parliamentary committee, at the end of January or beginning of February, we will have plenty of time, this spring, to have this discussion.”
Watch the full interview in the video above.
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**Interview with Christian Dubé, Minister of Health in Quebec**
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us today, Minister Dubé. We’ve heard about your commitment to reforming Quebec’s healthcare system, particularly regarding the public and private sectors. Can you elaborate on your plans to restrict the expansion of the private health network?
**Christian Dubé:** Thank you for having me. Yes, as part of our reform, I believe we must prioritize the public healthcare system. The evidence we’ve reviewed suggests that private funding does not enhance access or reduce overall costs. This aligns with the position of the College of Physicians, which is advocating for stricter regulation of the private sector.
**Interviewer:** That’s a significant stance. What do you say to those who argue that private healthcare options can alleviate pressure on the public system, particularly during high-demand periods?
**Christian Dubé:** I understand those concerns. However, I believe we are at a critical juncture where we need to focus on strengthening our public system instead of expanding private options. Our goal is to ensure that everyone has equitable access to healthcare. Right now, while I acknowledge the necessity of the private sector during this transition, my long-term vision is to fortify public care infrastructure.
**Interviewer:** You mentioned the need for new doctors to work within the public system after their studies. How do you plan to implement this policy, and what support will you provide to attract medical professionals to public healthcare?
**Christian Dubé:** We recognize the importance of nurturing new talent in our public sector. We plan to work closely with medical schools and stakeholders to create pathways that encourage graduates to commit to public health careers. This includes offering incentives and addressing workload issues to ensure that new doctors feel supported in their roles.
**Interviewer:** In light of these changes, what is your timeline for implementing these policies, and how do you envision turning the public healthcare system around?
**Christian Dubé:** I aim for substantial progress within the next few years. Our priority is to develop a robust strategy that can accommodate current challenges while setting the stage for a sustainable future. This will involve collaboration with healthcare professionals and listening to the community’s needs.
**Interviewer:** Thank you for your insights, Minister Dubé. It sounds like you have a challenging yet hopeful path ahead for Quebec’s healthcare system.
**Christian Dubé:** Thank you. Together, we can work towards a system that serves everyone effectively.