Trump threats open ‘floodgate’ of inquiries from U.S. physicians about moving north

Renowned Ottawa heart surgeon Marc Ruel made headlines last year when he announced his plans to move to the United States to lead a heart division in the surgery department at the University of California, San Francisco. However, due to the political climate and threats from Donald Trump towards Canada, Ruel has decided to stay in his home country.

In an interview with CBC, Ruel expressed his concerns about the current situation in Canada, stating, “Canada is under duress right now. I felt my role and duty at this point was to directly serve my country from within.” This decision not only impacts Ruel but also reflects a larger trend of medical professionals being reluctant to work in the United States.

The shift in healthcare professionals from the U.S. to Canada could potentially benefit the Canadian health-care system. As American physicians look to relocate north, Canadians may be forgoing opportunities to work south of the border. This trend is a direct result of the political upheaval unleashed by the current U.S. president.

Ruel, who previously served as the head of cardiac surgery at the University of Ottawa Heart Institute, developed world-leading techniques in less invasive bypass surgery. His skills were highly sought after, especially in the western United States where advanced minimally invasive multiple bypass surgery is not as common.

Despite the lucrative opportunity at UCSF, Ruel chose to remain in Canada, citing his desire to serve his fellow Canadians. While he prefers to stay out of politics, the current geopolitical situation made it impossible for him to ignore the impact of his decision on both countries.

In contrast, many physicians in the U.S. are considering their options under a second Trump administration. Concerns over health secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. advancing an anti-science and vaccine-skeptical agenda have prompted some American doctors to seek opportunities in Canada. Kennedy’s recent decision to cut 10,000 jobs as part of a restructuring of federal public health agencies has only added to the uncertainty.

Recruiter Michelle Flynn has seen a significant increase in inquiries from American physicians wanting to relocate to Canada. The influx has led to a surge in interviews and registrations on their website, with many Canadian specialists now hesitant to move south.

Canada’s health-care system has made it easier for U.S.-trained physicians to practice in the country. Most provinces have removed barriers to licensing in recent years, with Ontario being particularly welcoming to American doctors. The province has worked with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario to streamline the licensing process for internationally educated healthcare workers.

With the disruption caused by Trump’s policies, Ruel believes that Canada is well-positioned to face an uncertain future. He praises the Canadian health-care system for its principles of equity, transferability, and access for all. Despite the challenges, Ruel remains optimistic about the future of healthcare in Canada.