Niagara is currently facing a shortage of 106 family doctors. Local mayors and administrative officers are working together to address this issue. Jill Croteau, a physician recruitment specialist, has been actively recruiting doctors from Ireland, the UK, and other regions. Niagara municipalities are offering financial incentives to attract doctors. In 2024, a record-setting 28 new doctors started practices in Niagara, with Welland recruiting 12 new doctors since June 2023. Despite these efforts, the growing population in Niagara increases the demand for more doctors, and 14% of current doctors are eligible for retirement. There is also a need for more medical school and residency spots in Ontario. Future plans include continued collaboration among municipalities and potential provincial government support to increase training opportunities.
