Been without fee agreement for two years
After weeks of often rancorous debate, Ontario's doctors voted to reject the tentative physician services agreement (PSA).
Sixty-three per cent of votes cast were against the agreement at the Aug. 14 meeting or by proxy. Fifty-five per cent of Ontario Medical Association (OMA) membership participated in the vote.
"Members have spoken, and the board of directors respects their decision," said Dr. Virginia Walley, OMA president.
The past two years have been some of the most challenging and demoralizing in recent memory for Ontario's doctors, according to the association.
With this decision taken the OMA will consult with members and physicians to identify additional priorities that must be addressed. As well, the OMA will meet with the Ontario government to set up a new framework for discussion.
Meanwhile, the charter challenge launched by the OMA to secure binding arbitration for Ontario's doctors continues.
"We respect and appreciate the time members have dedicated to understanding the agreement and to making an informed decision," said Dr. Walley.
The Ontario Medical Association (OMA) represents more than 42,000 physicians and medical students across the province.
