N.S. spends $39.6 million on doctors, including $150 new-patient bonus
HALIFAX — Nova Scotia’s family doctors are getting a pay boost — including a one-time, $150 bonus for every new patient they take on who was previously without a doctor.
Premier Stephen McNeil announced nearly $40 million in funding for family doctors Monday, including $13.9 million for hikes for physicians paid through fee-for-service or through a salary.
The Health Department estimates physicians could take home an extra $10,000 to $20,000 a year due to an increase in the office fee alone.
“We have a focused investment in family medicine, which is a first critical step in solving the challenges facing Nova Scotia’s primary health system,” said Dr. Tim Holland, president-elect of Doctors Nova Scotia.