Alberta doctors agree to deal with no pay increases

Alberta physicians have overwhelmingly ratified a two-year deal with the province that contains no pay increases.

The deal, which runs from April 1, 2018 to March 31, 2020, was endorsed by 89 per cent of physicians who voted.

The government says it will save $95 million in health-care costs.

• 'Risk-sharing' at centre of Alberta's modified doctor pay deal

Health Minister Sarah Hoffman defended the length of the deal which is considerably shorter than the previousseven-year contract.

"I'd rather be back in negotiations in 18 months and get zeros, than give something that is unaffordable over a long period of time," she said.

The previous agreement expired on March 31, 2018.

The last 18 months of the contract was modified in 2016 to cap the amount of increases to physician compensation.