Pilot program for South African-trained doctors showing early signs of success in N.S.

The CEO of Nova Scotia’s college of physicians and surgeons, Dr. Gus Grant, is optimistic about the early results of a pilot project involving doctors trained in South Africa. In a recent interview, he expressed his satisfaction with the progress of the program.

The initiative, which was launched approximately a year ago, provides doctors from South Africa with specialized training in family or emergency medicine a streamlined pathway to practice in Nova Scotia. Eligible doctors undergo an orientation period and then work alongside local physicians for about two months to acclimatize to the healthcare system.

Following this initial phase, the physicians transition to supervised practice, where they assume primary responsibility for patient care under the oversight of the hospital and college officials. Successful completion of the program entails signing a two-year return of service contract with Nova Scotia Health.

According to Grant, the pilot project has initially focused on the western zone but aims to expand to encompass the entire province. To date, approximately 25 doctors from South Africa have shown interest in practicing in Nova Scotia, with several emergency medicine and family medicine specialists already licensed and actively working in the region.

The collaboration between the college, health authority, and various government departments has been instrumental in establishing a framework to support internationally trained doctors. Grant emphasized the importance of ensuring a smooth transition for these physicians to practice safely and effectively in Nova Scotia.

As Canada faces a projected shortage of primary care physicians, Nova Scotia is increasingly reliant on recruiting internationally trained doctors to meet its healthcare demands. Grant underscored the necessity of competing on a global scale for medical talent to address the province’s short- and medium-term human resource needs.

As the country and province bolster their production of domestic physicians, the ability to attract and support internationally trained doctors remains critical. Grant emphasized the integral role these physicians play in sustaining and enhancing healthcare services in Nova Scotia.

The successful integration of internationally trained doctors into the healthcare system not only addresses immediate workforce challenges but also enriches the diversity and expertise within the medical community. Through strategic partnerships and comprehensive support structures, Nova Scotia is well-positioned to attract and retain top medical talent from around the world.