Minister Applauds Physicians

Health and Wellness Minister Maureen MacDonald is praising the leadership of Doctors Nova Scotia members after they voted to amend their master agreement, which helps the province live within its means.

"Nova Scotia's doctors are committed to patient care," said Ms. MacDonald. "We highly value the work they do and this will allow us to protect patient care now and in the future."

By accepting a one per cent increase on fees paid for service for the next two years, physicians will save the province about $45 million.

"Doctors understand the difficult economic times and I am impressed by the leadership role they are taking to improve our province's financial situation," said Ms. MacDonald.

The agreement is another example of government working with partners to deliver health care differently. Other examples include government's plan and actions to get fair drug prices to control the cost of drugs for people in Pharmacare and the overall cost to taxpayers. Government and district health authorities have also moved to group purchasing for products and services, expected to save several million dollars.

Doctors Nova Scotia and the province agreed to the wage amendment of the master agreement which was voted on in February. The majority agreed to the amendment that will come into effect April 1 and expire on March 31, 2015. The original contract would have expired March 31, 2013.

The master agreement is negotiated between Doctors Nova Scotia and the Department of Health and Wellness.