"Just like they did in the 90s when Chretien/Martin slashed healthcare funding or like they did when Ralph Klein did the same in Alberta."

We had the same problem here in Quebec.

Interestingly people made the same comment about quitting  in the UK when Cameron tried cutting the salaries of UK Drs working antisocial hours (weekends, overnight shifts)  - many did quit. 

AND they stopped applying to Medical schools - they are about to find out if 2017 will be the first year Medical School places go through "Clearing" when A -level results.