N.B. urged to consider interprovincial licensing of pathologists to deal with 'critical' shortage
CBC
New Brunswick and other regions facing a shortage of pathologists should consider interprovincial or national licensing, says the incoming president of the Canadian Association of Pathologists.
Dr. Jason Karamchandani, an associate professor in the Department of Pathology at McGill University in Montreal, says it could be a good short-term solution for the Vitalite Health Network, which has a "critical shortage."
"Particularly in the age of digital pathology, with just a few slide scanners placed strategically across the country, pathologists like myself might be able to help offset some of the acute staffing shortages," he said.
"But we are not licensed to practise medicine in all of the provinces across Canada, so I cannot sign out a case in New Brunswick."
Vitalite has at least seven vacant pathologist positions — two in Edmundston, two in Campbellton and three in Bathurst, data released to CBC shows.
Some of the positions have remained unfilled for more than two years.
Pathologists conducts autopsies and analyze samples of body tissues and bodily fluids to diagnose and monitor various diseases and conditions, such as cancer.
They also collaborate with other health-care professionals to develop treatment plans, and develop strategies to prevent the spread of infectious diseases.
Vitalité has declined to reveal what impact its vacancies are having on wait times and backlogs. CBC also asked the Department of Health but did not receive a response.
Horizon has four vacancies, but expects the positions in Miramichi and Saint John to be filled in July and September, a spokesperson has said. Horizon continues to actively recruit to fill the remaining two positions in Moncton and Fredericton.
The Canadian Medical Association has been advocating for pan-Canadian licensure as one way to address doctor shortages.
In May, an Atlantic Physician Registry was launched. It allows doctors in Atlantic Canada to work in any of the four provinces for one yearly fee, without additional licensing requirements.
It's the first multi-jurisdiction licensing model in the country, according to the Department of Health.
Karamchandani calls the initiative "brilliant" and would like to see a similar agreement extended to pathologists in other provinces.
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