Progress made on doctor shortage, but primary care crisis persists

BC Family Doctors are grateful for the progress on made on the family doctor shortage, but still face challenges in delivering care. The Longitudinal Family Physician Payment Model, introduced in 2023, attracted over 800 new family doctors and reduced the number of British Columbians without access to a family doctor.

While the new payment model slowed the exodus of family doctors, we continue to face a primary care crisis that extends beyond just recruitment. Family doctors are burdened by excessive administrative tasks, like unnecessary sick notes, that take time away from patient care. To ensure we can provide the best possible care, we need legislative changes that reduce these burdens and support for a more team-based approach to primary care, where other healthcare practitioners, led by a family doctor, can help deliver care to more British Columbians.

A strong primary care system is the foundation of our healthcare system. We call on the next government to prioritize these needs to build a healthier B.C. for everyone.

Watch BC Family Doctors President, Dr. Maryam Zeinedden, talk primary care with Global TV here.