Quebecers who do not already have family doctors likely won't be getting one anytime soon.
The Quebec Federation of General Practitioners says there is a shortage of between 800 and 1,000 general practitioners to fill the current needs of Quebecers who require care.
The shortage is due largely to early retirements; moves to the private sector; and a decline in enrollments to practice family medicine. Measures adopted by Quebec's former Minister of Health, Gaétan Barrette, were also singled out.
Currently, 19% of Quebecers do not have a family doctor.
The Federation of General Practitioners is also warning that there could be a lack of doctors in obstetrics, gynecology and anesthesia in the coming years.