American doctors look to Nova Scotia amid Trump uncertainty

Nova Scotia’s health authority has made a strategic move to recruit doctors from the United States who are looking to leave the country due to the presidency of Donald Trump. In a digital recruiting campaign launched in November, Nova Scotia Health targeted physicians who were feeling uneasy about the election results, with the aim of enticing them to come practice in Nova Scotia.

Katrina Philopoulos, the director of physician recruiting at Nova Scotia Health, stated that the campaign has resulted in 150 responses from interested doctors. From this pool, 27 physicians are currently in serious negotiations with the health authority, with one doctor already hired as a hospitalist and expected to start at the end of the month. Philopoulos emphasized the quick turnaround in securing this new hire and mentioned that several other physicians have committed to short-term contracts to fill in gaps in healthcare provision.

John Philpott, who runs a private recruiting company specializing in hiring international doctors, has also noticed a surge in interest from American physicians looking to relocate. He mentioned that his business is receiving inquiries from about 20 American physicians daily, with many expressing frustration and embarrassment over the rhetoric and actions of the Trump administration. Philpott estimated that up to 50% of the physicians he has been in contact with may ultimately make the move to Canada.

Nova Scotia Health is optimistic about the returns from this recruitment drive during a period of uncertainty in the United States. Philopoulos highlighted the importance of reaching out to both new and old contacts in the States, including Canadian expatriates working there, as they believe that now may be the right moment for some to consider a change.

Overall, Nova Scotia’s proactive approach to physician recruitment in the wake of political changes in the United States is aimed at bolstering their healthcare workforce and ensuring quality care for residents. With a focus on attracting talented doctors who are seeking a new professional environment, Nova Scotia Health is poised to benefit from the influx of skilled medical professionals looking to make a positive impact in their new home.