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EriPMN

Pathway to Medical Career

This is a general step-by-step guide for mentees interested in starting a career in Medical Sector. It’s important to discuss your specific interests with your mentor for personalized guidance:

  1. Explore different Business fields.
  2. Discuss your interests with a mentor
  3. Understand the specific Medical field that appeals to you.


Please remember, this is a general guide. For a more customized plan, it’s essential to
have detailed conversations with your mentor.

Step 1. Identify Your Area of Interest

  • Explore Roles: Research various roles such as physician, dentist, nurse (RN or LPN), dental hygienist, or allied health professional (e.g., physiotherapist, pharmacist).
  • Determine Specialty: Within your chosen field, consider specific areas of interest, such as pediatrics, geriatrics, emergency medicine, or dental surgery.

Step 2: Research Canadian Healthcare Regulations

  • Understand Credential Recognition: Research how foreign credentials are recognized in Canada. Each profession has a designated regulatory body, such as:
    • Medical Doctors: Medical Council of Canada (MCC)
    • Nurses: Provincial Nursing Regulatory Authorities (e.g., College of Nurses of Ontario)
    • Dentists: National Dental Examining Board of Canada (NDEB)
  • Licensing Requirements:Familiarize yourself with the licensing exams and requirements for your chosen profession.
  • The CPSO issues medical licences to those wishing to practise medicine in Ontario. This includes graduates from medical schools outside Canada or the United States

Step 3: Credential Assessment

  • Assessment Bodies: Use organizations like World Education Services (WES) for credential assessments to determine equivalency of your qualifications. Look up your school in the World Directory of Medical Schools and verify that Canada is listed under the “Sponsor notes” tab
  • Professional Competencies: If your credentials are recognized, review the competencies required to practice in Canada and identify any gaps in knowledge or skills.

Step 4: Pursue Required Education or Training

  • Complete Bridging Programs:Many newcomers may need to take bridging courses tailored for internationally educated professionals. These programs can help you meet Canadian standards.
    • For healthcare professionals, consider programs at community colleges or universities offering bridging courses for nurses or physicians.
  • For Medical Professionals:For those who already have medical license,
    • its suggested to contact the Medical Council of Canada (MCC) and they should guide you in the steps needed to obtain a Canadian Medical license. (for Alberta residents – Aimga)
    • College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario CPSO: The CPSO issues medical licenses to those wishing to practise medicine in Ontario. This includes graduates from medical schools outside Canada on their website www.cpso.on.ca
  • Additional Certifications: Obtain necessary certifications, such as Basic Life Support (BLS), Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS), or certifications specific to your field (e.g., dental hygienist certification).

Step 5: Gain Practical Experience

  • Volunteer or Shadowing: Seek volunteer opportunities in healthcare settings. Shadowing experienced professionals can provide insights into the Canadian healthcare environment.
  • Internships: Look for internships or residency programs that could provide hands-on experience. Websites like HealthCareersInSask.ca or HealthCareers.com may have listings.

Step 6: Leverage Settlement Services and Mentorship Programs

  • Services: Newcomer organizations like Immigrant Services Society of British Columbia (ISSofBC), ACCES Employment, or the YMCA provide workshops, networking, and resources for healthcare professionals.
  • Mentorship: Join mentorship programs specific to healthcare, such as the “Internationally Educated Nurses (IEN) Mentorship Program” or similar initiatives available through local health authorities.

Step 7: Network and Build Professional Connections

  • Join Professional Associations: Engage with relevant associations, such as the Canadian Medical Association (CMA), Canadian Nurses Association (CNA), or the Canadian Dental Association (CDA).
  • Attend Conferences and Workshops: Participate in industry conferences, continuing education workshops, and professional network events to connect with others in your field.

Step 8: Preparing for Job Applications

  • Canadian-style Resume and Cover Letter: Develop a resume and cover letter that highlight your qualifications and experiences reflective of Canadian standards.
  • Job Platforms: Utilize job search websites such as HealthCareersInSask.ca, Indeed.ca, or JobBank.gc.ca to find job openings specific to the healthcare field.

Step 9: Consider Advanced Qualifications

  • Postgraduate Study: For further career advancement, consider pursuing advanced education, such as a Master’s Degree in Nursing (MN), or specialized training in areas like public health, gerontology, or dental surgery.
  • Continuous Learning: Stay updated with continuous professional development and certifications to maintain your licensing and improve job prospects.

Step 10: Prepare for the Licensing Examination

  • Study for Required Exams: Allocate sufficient preparation time for any exams that need to be completed to obtain licensure, such as the Medical Council of Canada Evaluating Examination (MCCEE) for doctors or the NCLEX-RN for nurses.
  • Practice Resources: Utilize study guides, prep courses offered by various organizations, and other resources to ensure successful exam completion.

Starting a career in medical, dental, or nursing fields in Canada involves careful planning, research, and proactive steps to meet licensure requirements and gain effective experience within the Canadian healthcare system. We advise to speak with your mentor to plan a pathway that best would suit your needs.