Doctor Shortage: Beyond Privatization in Alberta's Healthcare

Doctor Supply, Not Privatization

A recent discussion in Calgary has spotlighted a critical issue in Canada's healthcare system: the shortage of physicians. While some argue that privatization might be a solution, a closer look at Australia suggests otherwise. Australia boasts nearly four doctors per 1,000 people, compared to Canada’s 2.41. This disparity stems not from privatization but from strategic long-term policies.

Learning from Australia

Australia's success in increasing its doctor supply is attributed to expanding medical school seats, welcoming internationally trained doctors, and enhancing training pathways. These initiatives have been crucial, not the presence of private hospitals. In Calgary, similar efforts are underway. Alberta is expanding medical school enrollments and improving integration pathways for internationally trained physicians.

Efforts to recruit doctors to rural areas are also a focus, with financial incentives to encourage practice in underserved regions. While opinions differ on the role of privatization, there is a consensus on the need to increase physician numbers. Addressing healthcare challenges in Alberta may require balancing the growth of the physician workforce with optimizing resource use within the public system.