I've spent some time talking to recent and upcoming Med School grads, and they say that the biggest deteriate to getting into the family doctor and pediatricians business is the costs.
Unlike becoming a specialist, Family Doctors and Pediatricians essentially have to run a small business. They need an office, a staff, supplies, etc., It also doesn't help that Family Doctors and Pediatricians don't make as much as a specialists do. So if you're a young med school grad coming off thousands of dollars of loans, these avenues aren't going to look nearly as enticing as becoming a specialist.
I think until those underlying issues are resolved we're still going to face some major shortages with family doctors. I don't think setting a mandatory level is going to help if there aren't changes to pay structure, etc.,
Also on a side note, interesting to see Raj vying for the leadership of the liberals. He's a huge loss for the new leadership of the Alberta PCs (Which is understandable considering what happened to him). I really do hope he retains a seat in the Alberta Legislator, he's a great voice for the issues that are plaguing the Health Care system.
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