How Immigration Can Help Solve Canada’s Healthcare Shortage

Healthcare is currently the most pressing concern for Canadians, according to a recent CIC News survey. Millions of Canadians lack access to a family doctor, and healthcare wait times reached record levels last year. One key factor behind these challenges is a shortage of medical professionals. For example, Ontario had 2,600 physician vacancies at the start of this year.

A majority of Canadians believe that recruiting more foreign-trained medical professionals can help reduce wait times. However, foreign-trained doctors often face significant barriers to practicing in Canada.

Challenges for Foreign-Trained Medical Professionals

Despite having years of experience, many foreign-trained physicians struggle to obtain Canadian licenses. In Ontario, for instance, doctors must complete Canadian-based clinical training or practice before they can be licensed. Most residency positions—the final step before full licensure—are reserved for graduates of Canadian medical schools. Last year, 95% of Canadian medical school graduates secured residency placements, compared to only 42% of foreign-trained applicants.

Moreover, foreign-trained physicians must often wait months or even years to gain permanent residency status, further delaying their ability to contribute to the healthcare system.

Proposed Solutions to Improve Access to Care

Canadians broadly support efforts to address the shortage of healthcare workers by making it easier for foreign-trained professionals to practice. CIC News found that 61% of survey respondents support increasing the number of foreign-trained doctors, while 79% believe they can provide the same quality of care as locally trained physicians.

Potential solutions include:

• Increasing the number of residency positions available to foreign-trained doctors.
• Creating alternative pathways for experienced international medical professionals to become licensed.
• Removing citizenship or permanent residency requirements in provinces like Ontario, allowing doctors on work permits to gain licenses more quickly.

How Immigration Can Strengthen Canada’s Healthcare System

Canada’s aging population means a growing demand for healthcare services. Immigration can help fill that gap, providing younger workers to support the system and adding front-line healthcare professionals. With a well-managed immigration system and streamlined licensing processes, Canada can address its current healthcare shortages while also preparing for the future.