by Health Minister Michelle Thompson announced a new payment model for doctors in the province this afternoon.
The new model, known as a blended capitation model, will pay family doctors based on how many patients they have and the number of services they offer.
The model will also allow doctors in the same clinic to step in and see a patient if another doctor in the clinic is not available— a measure Thompson says will improve access to care for patients.
The model will be piloted at practices in Cheticamp, New Minas and in Tantallon in the Halifax area until at least March.