Gains made on physician shortage, but warning signs loom: Doctors Manitoba

A report by Doctors Manitoba shows significant improvement at reducing the physician shortage, but suggests retirements and high levels of burnout could put it at risk.

The organization that speaks for the province’s doctors says the number of physicians per 100,000 residents has climbed to 225 this year, a gain of 2.5 per cent from 2024. It moves the province closer to the national average of 241.

The annual “Physicians in Manitoba” report says Manitoba needs 246 additional doctors to meet the national average — that’s a decrease from a high of 445 two years ago, which it calls a significant improvement.

Both figures were compiled by the Canadian Institute for Health Information.

Manitoba had a record-breaking net increase of 164 docs last year, as reported by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Manitoba in September.

“Manitoba is climbing out of a record physician shortage, thanks to strong recruitment efforts and record increases over the last two years,” Dr. Nichelle Desilets, president of Doctors Manitoba, said in a news release. “It took years for the shortage to get as deep as it was, and we are digging out faster than we anticipated.”

On the negative side of the register, Doctors Manitoba called attention to troubling results from a survey it conducted of its members.

Twenty-one per cent — or 710 physicians — are considering retiring or leaving the province in the next three years.

When the option of reducing hours is added to the equation, the figure rises to 43 per cent of doctors.

“Frustration about broader issues within Manitoba’s health-care system like excessive administrative burden, siloed electronic record systems, and a lack of access to equipment and facilities are key drivers of physician burnout and distress, and thus major reasons why they are planning to leave the province,” said Desilets.

The report found that 56 per cent of doctors are experiencing distress and 48 per cent reported high burnout.

“We need to see continued investment in these areas to provide physicians with the support they need and deserve. Broader supports for physicians lead to better patient outcomes and a healthier medical system in Manitoba,” the doctor said.

The organization said it has spearheaded initiatives to provide early career support, mentorship, leadership training and enhance peer and physician mental health support.

Another worrisome factor highlighted by the report relates to current students and residents in the province: only 60 per cent of them plan to stay here; the other 40 per cent plan to leave or are undecided.

The advocacy organization said it urges health administrators to improve environments where physicians work by enhancing consultation and engagement, streamlining interaction between referring physicians and specialists, reducing the administrative burden, investing in facilities and expanding team-based care.

fpcity@freepress.mb.ca