Canadians Going back to Canada for Residency

[amoghadam]

hi everyone. I'm From Vancouver B.C and been accepted to PUMS, 4 year MD program for sep 2009...However, i really am dealing with a lot of uncertainties in terms of being able to come back to Canada for residency. Does anyone know anyone from PUMS that have tried that? I need to decide pretty soon as my flight is on Aug 24...any help would be greatly appreciated.


thanks

[CanadaPaul]

I can't say for sure, but from talking with our friend who did the 6 year program in Warsaw, students from Poland have gotten residency positions in Canada, it's just a lot harder and more competitive than the US for example.

Somebody please correct me if I'm wrong about this, but you need to pass your EE's for Canada in the same way you need to pass the USMLE for America.

In addition, if you are looking at any of the competitive residencies (derm, opth etc.) you can pretty much forget about it.

[Dette]

Over the summer I did meet one girl who just graduated and was unable to get a residency in the States or Canada. She seemed quite upset, but then again, I don't really know what her study habits were. I think that an important factor is how well you do on your step exams (I am not familiar with the Canadian exams, but for US - the USMLEs).

I do agree that it will be more difficult to move back, but if you want something bad enough, you will get there. You just have to work at it.

[palo]

It also depends on what residency program you want and if you are willing to work outside large cities. It's difficult for IMGs to get placements in Canada, especially for specialists. And very difficult to receive them in major cities. If your an IMG student and you don't mind working as a Family Doctor in a rural setting ie in Northern Ontario, or Alberta than PUMS is a fine option. But if you want a specialty or to work in a major city this will be extremely difficult. I have friends in Canadian Medical schools that had trouble matching into programs they wanted, so keep this in mind.

[palo]

I can't say for sure, but from talking with our friend who did the 6 year program in Warsaw, students from Poland have gotten residency positions in Canada, it's just a lot harder and more competitive than the US for example.

Somebody please correct me if I'm wrong about this, but you need to pass your EE's for Canada in the same way you need to pass the USMLE for America.

In addition, if you are looking at any of the competitive residencies (derm, opth etc.) you can pretty much forget about it.

Everything is accurate for residency in canada you need the MCCEE passed, for USA you need Step 1, CK & CS and MCCEE passed if you are Canadian. As you will not be granted a Visa until you pass the MCCEE.:doh: