The year 2018 witnesses shortage of doctors in Canada than ever before. It is not just an empty claim as statistics have the same to say. As per statistics, there are around 700,000 citizens in the Canadian province of British Columbia, who not even have a single family doctor. Now this something that calls for attention!
In order to fight this dearth of doctors in Canada as quickly as possible, it is required to open up the way for immigrant doctors who can fill in the empty spaces and help people with their services. Although, training new doctors also seem to be a viable solution for this problem, but it won’t change the current scenario. This is because, most medical students follow up exclusive careers in hospitals or as specialists that is not at all close to solve the current problem in Canada.
What’s the Solution?
New Canadian Immigration Stream for Doctors –
The government has been working on new Canadian Immigration Stream for doctors to fight this problem step by step and as soon as possible. For instance the provinces of Nova Scotia and British Columbia have allowed the migration of doctors to Canada from 29 jurisdictions (including UK & USA) within a time of 5-10 days as the Nova Scotia continues to have 75 vacancies for family doctors in the province. As per the health authority in Canada, there is a need to hire about 110 international doctors in a year to make the situation better for the citizens. Although right now the aim is to hire a modest number of 12 doctors internationally.
What are the Terms?
If you want to work as a Doctor in Canada, you are required to have a valid job offer with NSHA (Nova Scotia Health Authority) or the Izaak Walton Killam Health Centre for the role of either a general practitioner and family physician or a specialist physician. You will also need to pass all the licensing formalities before starting your medical practice in Canada.
How to Apply?
In order to apply for the New Canadian immigration stream for doctors, you need to first apply for a provincial nomination that you will get from the Nova Scotia immigration department. It is after this process that you will have to follow up for applying for permanent residence IRCC (Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada).