CPSO approves new policy to make it easier for internationally-trained subspecialists to set up independent practice

The College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO) just approved a new policy with the aim of clearing the path for internationally-trained subspecialists to set up independent practices in the province. Typically, subspecialist affiliate candidates have registered and trained as clinical fellows in programs accredited by the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada. But the candidates “do not have prerequisite RCPSC certification in a primary specialty for RCSPC fellowship,” noted a release from the CPSO. The new Recognition of RCPSC Subspecialist Affiliate Status policy creates a route for such candidates and other internationally-educated physicians who already hold the subspecialist affiliate designation to practice independently within their scope. “During these challenging times, CPSO will continue to take every available step to help alleviate the strains on our healthcare system,” CEO and registrar Dr. Nancy Whitmore said in a press release. “We will continue to work with our partners to identify opportunities to reduce barriers to care and further support Ontario physicians.” Read: Why northern doctors don’t serve with the OMA Specifically, the policy states that the RCPSC “can grant subspecialist affiliate status to internationally trained subspecialists who are not certified in their primary specialty.” It says the CPSO can issue a subspeciality a restricted certificate of registration to practise independently if the doctor has a medical degree from an “acceptable” school; has successfully completed postgraduate training for the relevant subspecialty for which the college granted their subspecialist affiliate attestation; has gotten their Licentiate of the Medical Council of Canada or done another “acceptable qualifying exam;” and gotten their subspecialist affiliate status from the PCPSC. The CPSO also announced in accompaniment with this new policy that it is eliminating the fees for “medical residents who provide additional services at Ontario hospitals.” “CPSO identified an opportunity to remove unnecessary barriers to registration, while also recognizing the important contribution that residents are making to a strained healthcare system,” the release read.

CPSO approves new policy to make it easier for internationally-trained subspecialists to set up independent practice

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