The Coalition Avenir Québec (CAQ) is facing criticism from political rivals after leader Christine Fréchette announced a reversal of the party’s health-care policy, saying a future CAQ government would make it easier for doctors to work in both the public and private sectors.
The proposal marks a significant shift from a law passed by the CAQ government in 2025 that required new doctors to work exclusively in Quebec’s public health-care system for five years. Fréchette has now indicated that her party would loosen those restrictions if re-elected in the October 5 provincial election.
Quebec Liberal Leader Charles Milliard criticized the announcement, accusing Fréchette of distancing herself from decisions made by the government she now leads. He argued that the policy change reflects an attempt to separate the new CAQ leadership from the party’s previous record.
Québec solidaire spokesperson Ruba Ghazal also rejected the proposal, saying Quebec should instead concentrate on bringing more doctors into the public system rather than making it easier for physicians to divide their work between public and private practice.
The health-care debate is unfolding on the fifth day of Quebec’s provincial election campaign, with health services expected to remain a major issue for voters. The CAQ has governed Quebec since 2018 but is facing a competitive election amid concerns about the province’s health-care system and cost of living.
Campaign Day 5 has also featured proposals from the major parties on housing, natural resources, education and government spending. The Parti Québécois has proposed reducing public-sector payroll costs, while the Conservatives are advocating greater development of Quebec’s natural-gas resources. The Liberals have proposed building 100,000 housing units annually.
Fréchette took over as CAQ leader in April after former premier François Legault stepped down. Her campaign now faces the challenge of convincing voters that the party can address Quebec’s health-care pressures while offering a new direction after eight years in government.
The dispute over doctor mobility could become an important issue as the campaign progresses, particularly as parties debate how Quebec can improve access to physicians while balancing the public system with private health-care services.
Swifteradio.com
