A proposed bill in Quebec that would require new doctors to stay in the province for a certain period of time after completing their training has raised legal concerns, according to an expert.
The bill, known as Bill 11, was introduced by the Coalition Avenir Québec (CAQ) government in an effort to address the shortage of doctors in the province. It would require new doctors to sign a contract committing them to work in Quebec for a minimum of five years after completing their residency.
However, some legal experts have raised concerns about the constitutionality of the bill. According to McGill University law professor Daniel Weinstock, the bill could potentially violate the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms, which guarantees freedom of movement within the country.
Weinstock also pointed out that the bill could face challenges under Quebec’s own Charter of Human Rights and Freedoms, which prohibits discrimination based on place of origin.
The proposed bill has also sparked debate among medical professionals. While some argue that it could help address the shortage of doctors in rural and remote areas, others argue that it could discourage new doctors from choosing to practice in Quebec.
The Quebec Medical Association (QMA) has expressed concerns about the bill, stating that it could create a “climate of mistrust” between doctors and the government.
The QMA also pointed out that the bill could potentially lead to a decrease in the number of medical students choosing to study in Quebec, as they may be deterred by the prospect of being forced to stay in the province after graduation.
The CAQ government has defended the bill, stating that it is necessary to address the shortage of doctors in the province. They have also stated that the bill would not prevent doctors from leaving the province after the five-year period, but rather would require them to repay a portion of their training costs if they choose to do so.
The bill is currently being studied by a parliamentary committee, and it remains to be seen whether any changes will be made before it is put to a vote.
In the meantime, the debate over Bill 11 continues, with legal experts, medical professionals, and government officials all weighing in on the potential implications of this proposed legislation.
