A recent study has uncovered a significant disparity in how family doctors practice medicine in Ontario, with female physicians dedicating more time to patient appointments yet earning less than their male counterparts. The research, published in January 2026, highlights systemic differences in clinical approach and economic outcomes based on gender.
Key Findings from the Research
The analysis indicates that female family doctors consistently schedule longer appointment slots for their patients. This practice allows for more comprehensive consultations, potentially addressing multiple concerns in a single visit and fostering stronger doctor-patient relationships. However, this patient-centred approach comes with a financial trade-off within Ontario's fee-for-service model.
Despite the increased time investment, the study found that female physicians generate less billable revenue per hour compared to male doctors. The structure of the provincial billing system, which often rewards a higher volume of shorter visits, inadvertently penalizes the longer, more thorough style of care frequently adopted by women in the field. This creates a paradox where quality patient interaction is economically disadvantaged.
Implications for Ontario's Healthcare System
This gender-based discrepancy has profound implications for the sustainability of family medicine in the province. The findings suggest that the current compensation model may not adequately value the type of comprehensive, preventative care that is crucial for long-term patient health. This could influence practice styles and career satisfaction, potentially exacerbating the existing shortage of family physicians.
Experts point out that the study's results underscore a need to re-evaluate how primary care is funded and incentivized. Addressing this pay gap is not only a matter of gender equity but also of healthcare quality. A system that financially disadvantages longer visits may discourage all doctors from spending the necessary time to manage complex chronic conditions effectively.
Looking Forward: Calls for Systemic Change
The research adds to ongoing conversations about modernizing Ontario's healthcare delivery. Advocates argue that moving towards blended capitation or salary models, which reward patient attachment and outcomes rather than sheer visit numbers, could help rectify this imbalance. Such changes would better align physician compensation with patient care goals, regardless of the practitioner's gender.
As the province continues to grapple with healthcare access issues, this study provides critical data showing that how doctors are paid directly impacts how they care for patients. Ensuring that the medical system values and supports the time-intensive, relationship-based care often provided by female doctors is essential for building a resilient and effective primary care network for all Ontarians.
