News that doctors from other countries will have an easier time entering practice in Ontario may result in more physicians for the Hastings-Prince Edward area — and it could eventually help thousands without a family doctor finally get one.
“I really wish they had done it five years ago,†Dr. Peter Gray, a family physician at the Bay View Mall Medical Offices in Belleville’s east end, said.
Gray, who graduated from medical school in England, had trouble setting up practice here in 2003-04 and had to spend two years in Newfoundland, where restrictions are less severe, before returning to Ontario.
He applauded this week’s Ministry of Health announcement that legislation will be introduced to streamline the licence to practise for international medical graduates, (IMGs).
“That’s excellent,†Gray said Wednesday. “This is exactly what they should be doing. It’s a pity it took so long in the making.â€
The 20,000 or so area residents without a family doctor could benefit from the changes and find themselves sitting in a physician’s office rather than waiting interminably in an after-hours clinic or hospital emergency department.
“It’s definitely going to be a positive in our region,†Dr. Mohamed Gaber, Quinte Health Care’s chief of staff, said Wednesday.
“(It’s) absolutely very good news. The more (doctors) the merry, as we would say.â€
The hospital is in negotiations with two IMG doctors now, said Jan Richardson, vice-president of QHC’s human resources, medical affairs and support services.
Most areas of the province suffer from a chronic shortage of family doctors, particularly in smaller communities like Hastings and Prince Edward counties.
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