Nova Scotia will shorten the evaluation period for granting licenses to foreign-trained physicians
Houston explained that the program will dramatically reduce the assessment period for candidates from the current 18 months to about 12 weeks.
Nova Scotia is introducing a new medical program aimed at certifying internationally trained doctors more quickly to join the province's health system.
Premier Tim Houston announced that, beginning early next year, a new clinic in Halifax will evaluate international medical graduates while also providing primary care services to around 2,500 patients.
Houston explained that the program will dramatically reduce the assessment period for candidates from the current 18 months to about 12 weeks.
Graduates from the program will receive a licence to practice in Nova Scotia and must commit to a three-year service agreement to work in the province.
The program is expected to issue around 45 licences annually, a significant increase compared to the 39 licences granted to internationally trained doctors over the past five years.
To qualify for the assessment clinic, candidates must hold a recognized medical degree, have completed two years of postgraduate training, demonstrate English proficiency, and have trained or practiced medicine within the last three to five years.
