B.C. aims to poach U.S. doctors and nurses by highlighting ‘uncertainty and chaos’ south of the border

British Columbia is actively working to attract doctors and nurses from the United States to address the healthcare worker shortage in the province. Health Minister Josie Osborne has announced significant changes to licensing rules, allowing U.S.-trained doctors and nurses to start practicing in B.C. immediately without the need for further assessments or training.

Osborne emphasized that this recruitment opportunity is unprecedented, especially given the current uncertainties and challenges facing healthcare professionals in the United States. The province is launching a marketing campaign in Washington, Oregon, and California to encourage skilled health-care workers to consider moving to Canada, particularly to British Columbia.

The recruitment campaign will also focus on highlighting opportunities in rural and remote communities that are facing shortages of healthcare workers. Despite concerns about potentially aggravating U.S. officials amid an escalating trade war, Osborne remains optimistic about the benefits of attracting healthcare professionals to a supportive and welcoming environment.

The success of recent changes to the payment model for family doctors in B.C. serves as a foundation for the recruitment campaign. Since implementing a new payment structure in February 2023, the province has seen a significant increase in the number of family doctors practicing in B.C. The model, which includes a salary-like payment structure based on time spent with patients and case complexity, has led to a higher average salary for family physicians.

Doctors of B.C. have praised the new payment model for its positive impact on attracting and retaining doctors in family medicine. President Charlene Lui highlighted the importance of the model in attaching more patients to family doctors and improving healthcare access.

The province is also streamlining the credentialing process for U.S.-trained doctors and nurses, following similar changes in other Canadian provinces. American nurses will soon be able to apply for licensure directly with the B.C. College of Nurses, simplifying the registration process.

While the recruitment campaign and payment model changes have shown promising results, challenges remain. Approximately 400,000 people are still waiting to be matched with a family doctor, underscoring the ongoing need for more healthcare professionals. The B.C. Nurses’ Union President, Adriane Gear, highlighted the importance of improving working conditions to retain healthcare workers.

Dr. Rita McCracken, a family doctor and assistant professor at UBC, emphasized the need for continued innovation in healthcare delivery. She suggested expanding team-based clinics across the province to enhance patient care and address the evolving healthcare needs of the population.

In conclusion, British Columbia’s efforts to attract healthcare professionals from the United States are aimed at strengthening the public healthcare system and building healthier communities. By offering a supportive environment, competitive payment models, and opportunities for professional growth, the province is positioning itself as an attractive destination for skilled healthcare workers looking to make a difference in their careers.