Quebec shortage of cardiac surgeons adds pressure to care
Quebec cardiac surgeon shortage strains surgery access and grows backlog See how staffing gaps and medical agreements are shaping patient care
Quebec’s healthcare system is facing pressure from a shortage of cardiac surgeons, according to a CBC report on the issue.
The province has 44 practicing cardiac surgeons, but Dr. Louis Perrault, president of the Association of Cardiovascular and Thoracic Surgeons of Quebec, says that number is lower than it should be. He argues the gap is contributing to a growing surgery backlog and affecting patient access to care.
The report also points to broader questions about whether last year’s agreement between Quebec and its medical specialists has slowed departures from the province. The situation highlights ongoing staffing challenges in specialized hospital care.