New program helps newcomer physicians master medical English for Canadian healthcare system
Credit to Author: Canadian Immigrant| Date: Tue, 17 Sep 2024 17:31:38 +0000
A new initiative, the Health English Language Pro (HELP) program has been launched to support internationally educated physicians (IEPs) as they navigate the challenges of integrating into Canada’s healthcare system. Developed by ACCES Employment, in collaboration with Canadian physicians, HELP is designed to bridge language and communication gaps by pairing newcomer physicians with experienced Canadian counterparts.
The program focuses on enhancing the medical communication skills of newcomer physicians, helping them master the nuances of healthcare language and familiarizing them with Canada’s healthcare communication styles.
HELP is structured to facilitate one-on-one mentoring between IEPs and volunteer physicians, offering tailored guidance to help participants practice medical English and navigate the operational complexities of the Canadian healthcare environment. Newcomer physicians participate in 12 weekly, personalized sessions, which can be conducted virtually or in person. This flexible setup allows them to build confidence in using medical terminology while understanding the subtleties of patient interactions and professional communication.
“HELP is a win-win-win: for newcomer physicians, it helps them achieve their professional goals; for volunteer physicians, it offers a fulfilling way to contribute; and for the Canadian healthcare system, it alleviates workforce shortages,” says Dr. Eva Grunfeld, a physician and professor at the University of Toronto collaborated with ACCES to come up with the HELP program. Launched following a successful pilot in 2024, HELP was inspired by Dr. Grunfeld’s desire to offer Canadian physicians, particularly those in retirement, an opportunity to give back while addressing a critical need in the healthcare sector. The program provides participants with conversation guides and medical case scenarios created by experts in the field.
Cameron Moser, Senior Director of Services and Program Development at ACCES Employment, highlights the importance of such support: “HELP creates a space where newcomer physicians can build partnerships with practicing physicians. These relationships dive deep into the intricacies of medical English, providing an opportunity for practicing physicians to help in a structured and sustainable way.”
Canadian physicians who volunteer with HELP have the chance to make a lasting impact by helping internationally trained doctors overcome language barriers. By sharing their knowledge, they aid newcomer physicians in successfully transitioning into the Canadian medical field.
Newcomer physicians looking to enhance their communication skills, or Canadian physicians interested in volunteering, can reach out to ACCES Employment through its various locations in the Greater Toronto Area.
For more information, visit ACCES Employment.
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