Calgary too costly for some family physicians

(CBC) - Some Calgary doctors are closing their doors because they say it's too expensive to maintain a practice in the city.

Dr. Norma Spence, a family physician, told CBC News she's shutting down her practice at the end of January for several reasons.

A deteriorating health-care system and overcrowded hospitals mean that family clinics are busier than ever, she said, adding that skyrocketing overhead costs are a major factor in her decision to close.

She said she knows of at least 12 other family doctors in Calgary who also plan to shut down their practices.

The Alberta Medical Association says overhead costs for family doctors have risen by between 12 and 15 per cent recently, adding that doctors have not had a corresponding raise in fees.

"Our wage has not increased accordingly, and we've been forced to see more and more patients per day, and this is promoting poor health care for the patients," Spence said. "In fact, there already are some dangerous things occurring." People with life-threatening conditions are leaving overcrowded emergency rooms and showing up at her clinic the next day, she explained.

Spence's decision to close means that patients like Roma Franklin will be searching for a new doctor in a city where there is already a serious shortage.

"She's seen me through a number of illnesses which, without her expertise, would have been a lot worse," said Franklin, a patient of 15 years. "I think it's really sad that we're losing competent experienced family doctors."

According to the Calgary Health Region, over 300 family doctors are needed in the city.

Spence worries the problem will only get worse unless family doctors switch from a fee-for-service pay scheme to a salary system that keeps up with their increasing costs.

© the CBC, 2006