Doctor shortages have reached a critical level in Canada. At last estimate, the country produces 17 new doctors per 100,000 people annually, meaning that millions of people lack access to a regular provider.
Structural factors may be contributing to the physician shortage. Residency slots are limited, some provinces have strict medical licensing requirements that include extra fees and arduous application processes, and practice eligibility requirements can become expensive. The situation is challenging for Canadians who have a passion for medicine but few options other than to seek education, residency spots, and jobs abroad.
