The PRC Report
The Physician Resource Committee (PRC) also reviewed the supply of specialists using two sets of recommended physician-population ratios. The approach differs from our study and findings vary in regards to some specialties, but overall both studies point in the same direction. The PRC report, like this one, is cautious about reaching conclusions based on numbers alone. For example, the ratios show an 8-15% shortage of obstetricians/ gynaecologists, but the PRC does not recommend a substantial change in supply.
They pay attention, as our study does, to distribution of services. For example, they identify an oversupply of general paediatricians in Winnipeg, but note their services are needed outside Winnipeg and Brandon. The report also concludes that Winnipeg doesn't need more psychiatrists, but their services are needed outside the capital. The PRC says although some surgical specialists appear to be in short supply, overall "the number and distribution of surgeons and surgical specialists does not require substantial change."
