Leaders of Prince Edward Island’s Liberal and Green parties demand urgent changes to retain doctors after three family physicians announced their departure, impacting 4,500 patients who will lose primary care access.
Physicians Cite Workload and Disrespect
Dr. Heather Austin, who has practiced family medicine on the island since 2011, plans to close her Summerside practice and relocate to Nova Scotia in 2028. She states that Health P.E.I. has made it harder for her to perform the work she loves, pointing to an agreement between doctors, Health P.E.I., and the provincial government.
The other departing doctors, Dr. Andrew MacLeod and Dr. Mitchell Stewart, have also notified Health P.E.I. of their exits from family practices.
Background on Physician Agreement Disputes
Tensions stem from the Physician Services Agreement signed in 2024 by the Department of Health, Health P.E.I., and the Medical Society of P.E.I. Early 2025 saw physicians protest a new operational guide, prompting the medical society to threaten legal action.
Mediation in December 2025 produced a memorandum of agreement offering two patient roster options: Model A with 1,600 patients or Model B with 1,300. However, some physicians object to required metrics tracking administrative tasks, collaboration, and other non-patient-visit duties.
Liberal Leader Calls Atmosphere Toxic
Liberal Leader Robert Mitchell describes P.E.I.’s health care as in very bad shape, with daily news of disrespected doctors. “The atmosphere is toxic,” he says, adding that the island should offer world-class care but shows no improvement.
Mitchell reviewed letters from Dr. Austin detailing increased workloads and urges officials to learn from the departing doctors. “We have to hear their message and work with that to ensure changes across all frontline health professionals,” he states.
Green Leader Warns of Doctor Exodus
Green Party Leader Matt MacFarlane reports hearing from doctors over the past year, particularly post-MOA. “This path will not incentivize doctors to come to P.E.I. or stay,” he asserts, noting visible damage to the physician community.
MacFarlane expresses surprise at Austin’s public stance, as doctors fear reprisal from Health P.E.I. and the Department of Health and Wellness. He recounts tearful conversations with physicians at their breaking point, signaling the crisis’s severity as some now share challenges openly on social media.
