SPECIAL TOPIC The Canadian Plastic Surgery Workforce Survey: Interpretation and Implications

Background: Few studies have monitored physician supply in Canada, and no studies have specifically examined the Canadian plastic surgery workforce. Methods: In this study, data were gathered by three methods. A survey was distributed to all members of the Canadian Society of Plastic Surgeons in October of 2004. Opinions on the availability of plastic surgery services were solicited. A second survey that focused on demographics and workload was distributed in December of 2004. Finally, the locations of all Canadian trainees graduating between 1995 and 2005 were reviewed. Results: The response rate to the first survey was 42 percent. Seventy-eight percent of respondents felt that there was a shortage of plastic surgeons in their community. The response rate to the second survey was 40 percent. Twenty-eight percent of respondents were within 5 years of retirement and 3.2 percent stated that they planned to emigrate by 2010. The mean waiting time for an elective consultation was 32 33 weeks. Review of all 179 plastic surgery graduates over the past 10 years revealed that 23 percent now practice outside of Canada