Doctors speaking

B.C. fast-tracking licensing process for international doctors

November 29, 2022

In a move to address the doctor shortage, the B.C. government is speeding up the process to allow internationally-trained doctors to begin practicing in the province.

Premier David Eby says the pandemic has “exposed” challenges to B.C’s healthcare system, and “too many” British Columbians are having trouble finding a family doctor. President of Doctors of BC, Dr. Ramneek Dosanjh, says the organization has long advocated for allowing easier access for international doctors.

“We are pleased that the provincial government is making it easier for more U.S. and internationally trained family doctors to come to British Columbia and practise,” she said in a statement. “Given the challenges in our primary care system and the number of patients without a family doctor, these changes will greatly benefit British Columbians.”