Abstract
This report focuses on the benefits and limitations of an empirical estimation of manpower needs by selected professionals. The knowledge of the approximate numbers of psychiatrists practising and required in one's province appears to be limited to a few people. This is particularly true in the provinces with a high psychiatrist-to-population ratio. For most, the criterion 1/9650 psychiatrist-to-population ratio is still valid.
A manpower shortage is unanimously identified; for the low psychiatrist-to-population ratio provinces, the priority is shortage in total numbers, for the high ratio provinces it is geographical maldistribution, in both, certain community needs are left unmet. Suggestions for improvement of these issues are evaluated. The reallocation and redistribution of psychiatric trainees as a solution to geographical maldistribution and unmet community needs is favoured by all respondents except those with a primary educational responsibility. A dialogue between involved parties appears necessary.
Provincial governments are aware of the situation but their collaboration is doubtful; some respondents blame the government and some place the responsibility squarely on our profession. The involvement of the Canadian Psychiatric Association would be welcomed.