Could a national physician registry help Alberta’s doctor shortage? Some physicians think so – CBC

Canadian Medical Association is calling for pan-Canadian licensure for physicians

May 09, 2023

As Alberta continues to grapple with physician shortages, some doctors point to the concept of a unified national licensing system as one possible relief valve, particularly for rural areas.

The Canadian Medical Association has been advocating for pan-Canadian licensure as one way to address doctor shortages.

An interprovincial registry launched in Atlantic Canada at the beginning of May allows physicians who opt in to practise across provincial borders.

“The ongoing and growing shortage of physicians … is something that we’re seeing across the entire country. And because of that, it has fired up this conversation again and made it even more imperative for us to address it,” said Dr. Shazma Mithani, an Edmonton ER physician.

She’s treating a growing number of patients — with less urgent concerns or with worsening chronic conditions — in the emergency room because they don’t have access to primary care.

Read more: https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/calgary/national-physician-registry-alberta-shortage-1.6837235