The province is trying to encourage more team based care by family doctors.
They’ve partnered with Doctors Nova Scotia for a new funding model pilot project.
The model would compensate family doctors based on how many patients they have and the services they provide.
President of Doctors Nova Scotia Dr. Leisha Hawker says the intention is to make it easier for family doctors to provide the care their patients need.
Dr. Leisha Hawker (SOURCE: Doctors Nova Scotia)
“Today’s aging, sicker population means patient care is much more complex than it was years ago and the current billing codes haven’t evolved to adequately support the work that physicians do.”
Under the model physicians would work together to care for the practice’s patients, meaning if one is unavailable, another can step in.
physicians could also receive a bonus for ensuring their patients receive timely access to care.
Michelle Thompson, Minister of Health and Wellness; from Communications NS
Health and Wellness Minister Michelle Thompson says the project is a long time coming.
“It was first negotiated in the 2019 master agreement but our focus certainly had to be diverted as a healthcare system as we responded to COVID-19.”
The pilot will run at several family practices until at least next March, starting with practices in Cheticamp, New Minas and Upper Tantallon.
