The flight of physicians is causing a domino effect in some areas, even in such larger towns as Gander, where three physicians left after their patience with poor working conditions ran out. The central Newfoundland airport town has generally been able to hold on to a large medical complement while more isolated communities have gone wanting. Where there should be four physicians, there are two. Dr. Misik said he understands the anxieties of physicians in the field - and said the association is prepared to take action if the province's offer is unacceptable. We're going to stop negotiating.
Obstetricians There are signs of an agreement.
Obstetricians, who refused at New Year's to take on additional caseloads because of poor remuneration and increasing insurance fees, are now accepting new patients once more. A representative said they have been encouraged by developments at the bargaining table. The NLMA's main goal has been to achieve parity in fee rates and wages with Maritime provinces such as Nova Scotia. Dr. Misik said failure to make significant gains over the next two to three years could make the current exodus seem pale in comparison. We are in a crash situation over the next year, there's no doubt about that.