CPSA streamlines registration for new foreign doctors from ‘approved’ areas

The College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta is streamlining the process for foreign doctors to acquire licences in Alberta. (Pexels/Antoni Shkraba Studio)

Newly graduated doctors coming from an approved list of jurisdictions will have an easier time acquiring a licence in Alberta, officials said Wednesday.

The College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA) said all foreign-trained doctors from a list of approved jurisdictions whose credentials match Canadian standards will be eligible for full licences.

• Sign up for breaking news alerts from CTV News, right at your fingertips
• The information you need to know, sent directly to you: Download the CTV News App

The CPSA says the move is part of its Accelerated Jurisdiction Route, which has proven to support strong physician performance and safe patient outcomes.

“We are reducing barriers while maintaining the standards that Albertans count on and deserve. We believe it’s a practical, thoughtful approach to strengthening our health-care system and ensuring timely access to safe, competent care,” said Dr. Scott McLeod, CPSA registrar and CEO, in a news release.

The approved jurisdictions include medical schools in the United States, United Kingdom, Hong Kong, Singapore, South Africa, Switzerland, Ireland, Australia and New Zealand.

The CPSA says the change aims to modernize registration and ensure “equitable access” for all qualified international medical graduates.

‘Strengthen Alberta’s health workforce’

Adriana LaGrange, Alberta’s minister of primary and preventative health services, says she is pleased with the CPSA’s update.

“This initiative will strengthen Alberta’s health workforce, reduce red tape and ensure qualified individuals can work in our province,” she said in a statement.

Further details on the foreign institutions approved by the CPSA can be found online.