There is not overwhelming support for cash incentives to attract new doctors. Some communities in Bruce and Grey Counties are offering cash to attract and retain family physicians. But according to our recent internet news poll, only 59 per cent of the respondents support the idea. Many say there is a doctor shortage and the situation is only going to get worse as more doctors are relocating and many more are about to retire. One person says money talks, so if a community wants a doctor they need to provide financial incentives. A few feel medical care should be a top priority for any community. The other 41 per cent of respondents feel this approach to doctor recruitment disadvantages rural areas — which do not have as much money available as large urban centres do. Many feel the solution to the doctor shortage rests with the provincial and federal governments. They should be helping medical students with their education costs and helping them set up practices in under serviced areas. There were a total of 75 responses to our recent news survey.
