GNWT and NWTMA Announce New Four-Year Contract for NWT Physicians

YELLOWKNIFE (February 3, 2009) – The Government of the Northwest Territories and the Northwest Territories Medical Association (NWTMA) have reached an agreement on a new four-year contract for physicians in the Northwest Territories (NWT).The contract, which is retroactive to April 1, 2008, includes pay increases for family practitioners and specialists, and an increase to the NWT Fee Schedule. Physicians will receive pay increases over four years ranging from 3.5% to 6% in the first year, 3.5% in the second year, and 3% in the third and fourth years.

Other highlights of the agreement include:
o Introduction of annual retention bonuses based on a community index, which will compensate for different types of practice in different communities;
o Proration of all benefits to streamline administration and ensure equity;
o Increases to call back rates, on-call coverage and professional fees;
o Increases to northern allowance

The Honourable Sandy Lee, Minister of Health and Social Services, said, “The new agreement will support recruitment and retention of physicians in the Northwest Territories, which is a priority for our government, especially in rural NWT and Regional Centres.”

“The Northwest Territories Medical Association is committed to working with the Government of the Northwest Territories to ensure the highest quality care for all patients,” said Dr. Cindy Orlaw, President of the NWTMA.

For further information, contact:
Umesh Sutendra
Communications
Health and Social Services
Tel: (867) 920-3368