The College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario is trying to determine how to recruit more anesthesiologists.

The organization meets Thursday in Toronto. At issue is a growing problem in medicine; a shortage of anesthesiologists is causing surgery delays in big city hospitals as well as in rural areas.

The problem won't be easily fixed, says Dr. Alan Sandler, head of anesthesia for a group of hospitals that includes Toronto General.

Retirements, restrictions on foreign-trained doctors, fewer students specializing in anesthesia, a steady exodus to the U.S. -- all of these are factors contributing to the shortage.

There are about 2,000 anesthesiologists in Canada. Studies say another 15 to 20 per cent are needed to alleviate the shortage.

Thursday's meeting of the college was to zero in on one option -- easing restrictions on foreign-trained doctors and deciding how to do this without jeopardizing patient care.