Canadian doctors are finding it increasingly difficult to meet the needs of a growing number of aging patients living with chronic and complex medical conditions, a survey suggests.
Data released from the 2010 National Physician Survey, which surveyed 12,000 Canadian doctors, shows 72% reported the complexity of their patient caseload was placing increasing demands on their time.
The survey found 61% reported administrative duties and paperwork are placing more demands on their time, and 63% said managing patients with chronic conditions was a factor.
"I'm not surprised, but I'm somewhat disappointed at the performance of the health-care system over the last 10 years. We had hoped we'd be farther ahead," said Dr. Andrew Padmos, CEO of the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada.
Canada is seven years into its 10-year, $41-billion fix-for-a-generation health accord, graduating more doctors each year. But Padmos said the survey shows the gains are being eroded by the loss of physicians' time and increased frustration due to paperwork, and having to deal complex and chronic illnesses.
"This is a national problem ... There's a great deal of consistency across the country and it begs the need for system-wide changes at a national level. We need a overarching strategic plan from our national and provincial governments to serve all Canadians," said Jeff Turnbull, president of the Canadian Medical Association.
The survey found 61% of urgent care patients can be seen by their family physician within one day - down from 65% in 2007. The survey reported 58% of family doctors across Canada took new patients in 2010, compared to 62% in 2007.
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