After Doug Ford's 'call me' line, Ontario sees surge in Quebec doctor applications
- Harry North
- 3 days ago
- 1 min read
Nearly 150 Quebec doctors have applied for Ontario licenses since last week.
By Harry North
Published Oct 31, 2025
It began as a light-hearted quip.
“Call 1-800-Doug Ford … doctors, come see us,” Ontario Premier Doug Ford told Quebec physicians frustrated by the Legault government’s new doctor-compensation law.
The remark, made Wednesday, drew an immediate rebuke from Quebec Premier François Legault, who denounced it on social media. He even added a rare English translation of his post.
Indeed, Quebec doctors are picking up the phone.
The College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario said as of Friday it had received 148 licence applications from Quebec since Oct. 23. Nearly 80 came in since Wednesday.
Over the phone Friday evening, Ontario’s premier told The Gazette he had received several calls from Quebec doctors, but would not comment further. Ford said he did not want to upset his friend, Legault. He added he has a deep affection for Quebecers.
The legislation driving their frustration is Bill 2, a sweeping reform meant to improve access to family doctors. About 1.5 million Quebecers still do not have one.
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