Thread by @ParkVanMD

We need to start talking about the real problem with #AlbertaHealthcare and why @shandro and @jkenney plans will not work, will harm patients, and will cost the system more while delivering less. MDs leaving (and they are) is not the primary problem. 1/x

The biggest issue, is that we started with too few.
I have worked all over this province, and from day one there has been a massive shortage of MDs. Where I work (rural and remote AB) the problem is most apparent. Large % of people unable to get a FM doc. 2/x

Many others driving upwards of 4 hours to see one. Those that are lucky enough to have one? Wait lists are up to 7 MONTHS. The incredible rural docs serving these communities work tirelessly. Routinely > 100 hours a week. But they are human, and can only do so much. 3/x

Lack of a FM doc, or long wait times to see them, undermine the pt #MedicalHome. When pts cannot see their doc, they show up at EDs. EDs are not a good place to do primary or preventative care. The system cost can be 10 - 20x more [the MD makes the same or less]. 4/x

EDs lead to truncated care, difficult follow-up, long wait times, and missed opportunities to discuss #prevention rather than requiring #treatment. For the cost of a single visit most patients could be seen for a year or two by a family doc.

I would estimate that 50-80% of what I see while covering ED would be BETTER handled by FM in clinic. It would also be cheaper for the system, more convenient for the patient, and lead to better and more consistent care between 1 doc and their panel. 5/x

Here's the issue. @shandro is not only driving MDs out. He's also ensuring that far fewer new grads will stay here. Rural will again be hit harder, especially given his new 'suggestions' to @CPSA_CA which will make pat/mat leave and family vacations an impossible dream. 6/x

The # of rural MDs will shrink. As it does those that stay will need to cover EDs more frequently, meaning less clinic and longer wait times. More expense, longer waits, worse care, sicker Albertan's. Primary care is the foundation of healthcare. @shandro is destroying ours. 7/x

Dan Williams, @dtloewen, @GlennVanDijken, Mark Smith, @MirandaRosinMLA I have (or soon will) worked in all of your ridings providing FM, emergency services. They suffer from these problems like the rest of AB. The issues are complex, your local docs want to help. 8/x

MDs will not remain is such a toxic and soul killing environment forever. No one would ever choose to come here right now. It's time to speak up. #abhealth #ABDocs4Patients #ABPatients4Docs #abpoli
@DShepYEG