Introducing oneself as an IMG outside of medicine has always been a challenge.
“So, you’re a doctor.” No, not really, not yet, not in Canada anyway. I am not licensed to practice.
“But you’re Canadian, right?” Yes, but I am not eligible to apply to all open positions.
“And you’ve passed all the exams.” I’ve been a Licentiate for eight years now and my name is on the register of Canadian Doctors. I have done specialty and fellowship training as well.
“We need doctors!” Unfortunately, I’m not qualified to treat people.
These conversations have always been painful as I explain the intricacies of the licensure process. IMGs are viewed as “less than” notwithstanding previous medical education, training and years of work experience. Being an IMG in Canada has often been a demoralizing experience and has required a great deal of resilience.
The CaRMS application process was a dreaded annual event of intense preparation, excitement of getting interviews, followed by extreme disappointment when not matched. Your identity, confidence, and sense of purpose takes a beating.
My journey has taken 11 years to finally break through. Working as a Clinical Surgical Assistant (now referred to as an Associate Physician) all these years provided me with an in-depth understanding of our health care system. More importantly, it has strengthened my resolve to pursue my passion knowing I have much more to contribute to the community. I trained and worked in General Surgery in six other countries prior to landing in Canada. For various reasons and circumstances, I chose to stay here to pursue a lifelong calling to serve as a physician while ensuring my aging parents are well taken care of.
Now that I have successfully entered residency, I would like to pay it forward to the countless other IMGs who share the same passion and indomitable spirit. I share my story as I would like to give hope to my fellow IMGs that the dream is attainable, and not to give up hope.
There are many champions including myself who are striving to advance our cause to create an equitable, inclusive environment where everyone thrives in their chosen profession. AIMGA and other non-profit organizations nationwide are working collectively towards policy change that makes use of IMGs skills and talents in support of our ailing health care system. These champions have given me the hope I needed to continue my journey and I’m both grateful and proud to be in residency today.
My simple advice:
1. Stay informed. Rules are constantly changing. Get your information from reputable sources, such as AIMGA (Alberta International Medical Graduate Association).
2. Explore all possibilities and keep yourself open to them. You may not get exactly what you want but learn to embrace the new opportunities that present to you.
3. Advocate for yourself. You have the power to take charge of your life and live to the fullest.
To my fellow IMGs, do not lose sight of the dream. Trust that you have what it takes to succeed. Be proud of your origins and achievements. The journey may be daunting but is well worth it. Lastly, you are not alone. We may be scattered and seemingly isolated in our own little bubble just trying to survive our daily grind. As part of my role on the PARA Assembly, I hope to connect with every IMG resident in all specialties across Alberta to better represent our collective voice.
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Dr. Jennifer Garcia is a family medicine resident physician at the University of Calgary.
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