Ottawa, Canada – Canada’s Minister of Health, Kamal Khera, has outlined key initiatives aimed at addressing healthcare workforce challenges, ensuring Canadians continue to benefit from a strong and reliable public health system.
In a letter to provincial and territorial health ministers, Minister Khera emphasized the importance of recruiting, retaining, and supporting health professionals to mitigate the impact of U.S. tariffs on Canadian healthcare systems and workforce stability.
“To build a stronger Canada, we need to train, recruit, and retain enough doctors, nurses, and health professionals to care for Canadians,” Minister Khera stated.
The federal government’s plan includes:
1. Easier Mobility for Health Workers: Facilitating the movement of healthcare professionals across provinces and territories so they can practice where they are needed most.
2. Recognition of U.S.-Trained Professionals: Granting full licensure to Canadian doctors and nurses trained in the United States without requiring additional training.
3. Accelerated Credential Recognition: Leveraging federal investments to speed up the credentialing process for internationally educated health professionals.
As part of Budget 2024, the government has allocated $77.1 million over four years to accelerate the integration of internationally educated health professionals and expand training opportunities. Minister Khera has encouraged provinces and territories to increase residency positions and streamline licensing.
Additionally, the Minister pledged to work with Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) to improve pathways for foreign-trained health professionals, ensuring faster credential recognition and access to jobs across the country.
“These investments will help address healthcare shortages and ensure Canadians receive the quality care they deserve,” Khera said.
The federal government will collaborate with provincial and territorial governments to implement these measures swiftly.