Bridging the Healthcare Gap: The Urgent Need for International Doctors in Canada

Canada, renowned for its commitment to healthcare accessibility and quality, is facing a critical challenge that demands immediate attention: a shortage of doctors. The national healthcare system, a source of pride for Canadians, is grappling with increasing demands, and the call for foreign doctors to fill this crucial gap is becoming more urgent than ever.

Canada’s healthcare system is designed to provide universal access to medical services for all residents. However, the growing population, coupled with an aging demographic, has put significant strain on the existing healthcare infrastructure. According to the Canadian Medical Association, some regions are experiencing a shortage of family physicians, specialists, and healthcare professionals, impacting timely access to care.

As the demand for medical services continues to rise, international doctors play a pivotal role in maintaining the high standards of the Canadian healthcare system. Welcoming trained and qualified physicians from around the world is not just a strategic move but a necessity to ensure that Canadians receive the timely and comprehensive care they deserve.

Statistics from the Government of Canada from December 2022 state that “one out of every four healthcare sector workers” in Canada are immigrants.

When considering healthcare workers in Canada by occupation, the percentage of immigrants is as follows:

• 23% of registered nurses
• 35% of nurse aides and [those in] related occupations
• 37% of pharmacists
• 36% of physicians
• 39% of dentists
• 54% of dental technologists and [those in] related occupations

Benefits of International Doctors in Canada’s Healthcare System

1. Diverse Perspectives and Cultural Competence:

International doctors bring diverse perspectives and a deep understanding of cultural nuances, fostering a more inclusive and patient-centric healthcare environment. This diversity is especially crucial in a country as multicultural as Canada.

2. Addressing Regional Disparities:

International doctors can contribute to reducing healthcare disparities by choosing to practice in underserved rural or remote areas. Incentive programs and support for immigrant physicians willing to work in these regions can significantly impact access to care.

3. Meeting Growing Demands:

With the aging population, there is a rising demand for healthcare services. Health workers can help bridge the gap by providing essential medical care, from general practitioners to specialized fields, ensuring that all Canadians have access to timely and quality healthcare.

4. Enhancing Global Collaboration:

Attracting international doctors fosters global collaboration in healthcare. Sharing knowledge and practices from various regions can contribute to advancements in medical research and technology, benefiting both the Canadian healthcare system and the global medical community.

How to Immigrate to Canada as a Doctor

International doctors who wish to work in Canada typically need to go through a multi-step process to obtain the necessary work authorization. Confirm your eligibility to work in Canada. Foreign doctors may fall under various immigration streams, such as the Express Entry system, Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs), or specific streams designed for healthcare professionals.

1. Federal Skilled Worker (FSW) program
The Express Entry Federal Skilled Worker (FSW) program allows internationally qualified skilled professionals to move to Canada as permanent residents. Under the FSW program, applicants are invited to apply for PR based on their profile’s Comprehensive Ranking Score (CRS) rather than occupation.

Your CRS score is based on factors such as your age, education, work experience, language proficiency, and other factors. You also get extra points if you have a Canadian job offer from a clinic, hospital, or other health institution, a provincial nomination (see below section on PNP), or Canadian work experience or educational credentials. In order to get a job offer, you will need to complete your licensing process first.

2. Express Entry System:

• If eligible, consider applying through the Express Entry system, which is a points-based immigration system that considers factors like age, education, work experience, and language proficiency.
• Create an Express Entry profile and indicate your interest in working in Canada as a healthcare professional.

3. Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs):

• Explore PNPs, as many provinces have specific streams to nominate healthcare professionals based on their needs.
• Research and apply to the PNP in the province where you intend to work.
• Once in Canada, ensure you meet the licensing and certification requirements of the province where you intend to practice. Contact the regulatory body overseeing healthcare professionals in that province.

It’s important to note that the immigration process may vary based on individual circumstances, and it’s advisable to consult with immigration professionals or legal experts for personalized guidance. Additionally, staying informed about the latest immigration policies and updates is crucial throughout the process.