Health human resource action plan update

Since the launch of the health human resource action plan in November 2022, our government has been implementing incentives that will work to end mandating overtime by adding 2,000 health-care professionals with an investment of $200 million to retain, train and recruit healthcare professionals across our province. Previously, our government announced the Virtual Emergency Care and Transfer Resource Service (VECTRS) for rural and remote physicians. This program will support patient care by allowing physicians instant access to patient-transfer services, as well as specialist expert advice. This is only the beginning and collaboration with all levels of the health-care system and stakeholders will continue

Earlier this month, I had the opportunity to stand with Doctors Manitoba to bring some much needed help and supports to local physicians. Together we announced new incentives for physicians, one of which is the launch of a new premium for physicians who offer extended hours in family medicine and pediatric clinics. As of Feb. 1, family medicine and pediatric clinics offering extended hours can receive a 20 per cent premium on extended-hour billings. By extending clinic hours past the usual business hours, people who work during the day can have easier access to their local clinics and avoid waits in hospitals, which will help increase overall capacity in the health-care system. Furthermore, this is not overtime — it allows physicians to have flexible hours which will give them the opportunity for better work/life balance which, in turn, benefits patients.

We are also building for the future by adding 80 additional physician training seats within our province which will continue training and recruiting more doctors into our health system.

Our government is supporting overall physician health and wellness through a $450,000 contribution to the physician peer support program run by Doctors Manitoba. This program offers peer-support networks and training, as the support of colleagues has been shown to improve overall wellness and help reduce the risk of burnout. Our unique geography and provincial needs has required more of a community approach to supporting those who work in a high-stress environment. This incentive is a promise made and kept on the recommendations from the Rural and Northern Summit hosted by Doctors Manitoba.

We will continue to strengthen health care and expand our provincial capacity here at home while making Manitoba an attractive place to work as we recruit, retain, and train physicians and nurses.

Audrey Gordon
Southdale constituency report

Audrey Gordon is the PC MLA for Southdale.

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