BC’s Health Minister on Why Canada Wants U.S. Doctors (Ft. Josie Osborne - BC Health Minister)
Thinking of Moving to BC to Practice Medicine? Here’s What You Need to Know (From My Conversation with Health Minister Josie Osborne)
Welcome back, visitors and fellow physicians! I’m Dr. Rob Beck, your friendly host over at The Interesting MD. As an American who made the jump to Canada and, more specifically, to beautiful British Columbia, I know just how overwhelming it can feel when you’re thinking about making a big move—especially with as many steps and questions as relocating an entire medical career across the border.
If you haven’t caught the latest episode of the Interesting MD Podcast, you’re in for a treat. I sat down with none other than Josie Osborne, British Columbia’s Health Minister, to break down the newest physician recruitment policies, why BC is ramping up their invitation specifically to US-trained doctors, and what the process actually looks like from both the licensing and lifestyle perspective.
Why Is BC Actively Recruiting US Physicians?
To set the stage: Like many regions worldwide, British Columbia is experiencing significant physician shortages—from GPs to specialists and every crucial team member in between. The strain is real, especially with lengthy patient waitlists and, in some areas, a lack of reliable access to family doctors. The province isn’t just talking about the problem—they’re taking active steps. And that's where US-trained doctors come in.
What’s Changing with Physician Licensing in BC?
In my interview, Josie Osborne explained something remarkable: British Columbia is streamlining the process for qualified US physicians to get licensed and start practicing here. Historically, doctors had to jump through a lot of hoops—redundant exams, lengthy credentialing, complicated paperwork. No longer.
If you’re certified by the American Board of Medical Specialties, you’re in luck. The new pathway eliminates the need for further assessment and examination—no need for more testing or training. The province is working closely with the BC College of Physicians and Surgeons to make this one of the most straightforward licensure routes for international physicians in Canada.
Key points:
All specialties are welcome, with particular need for family physicians, especially in rural and remote communities.
There’s an emphasis on finding the right fit—not just a job, but a community that feels like home for you and your family.
Over 1,100 inquiries have already come in through the recruitment portal before the official ad campaign even launched, showing massive interest.
Step-by-Step: How to Get Started
I know the question you’re all asking: “How do I actually get started?”
Here’s what Josie Osborne recommends:
Visit BCHealthCareers.ca – This is the official portal for physician recruitment. You can register for informational webinars, and, importantly, get matched with a navigator from HealthMatch BC to personally guide you through the process.
If you want more details on the immigration process and resettling, check out WelcomeBC.ca for a full breakdown for families and individuals.
Immigration: What About My Family?
The BC government uses an Economic Immigration stream called the Provincial Nominee Program—designed specifically for skilled workers, including healthcare professionals. It makes your application for permanent residency more direct and efficient. The process dovetails with federal immigration authorities, creating a dedicated lane for healthcare recruits and their families.
Maintaining Certification—Is It Complicated?
In the US, you’ll be familiar with the amount of ongoing testing, expensive board renewals, and all the paperwork. BC’s requirements for ongoing education are in line with other Canadian provinces—practical, straightforward, and, speaking from experience, much less onerous than some American equivalents. As a US-trained physician here, you’ll maintain your US board certification while simultaneously meeting BC requirements. No extra exams or expensive retesting hoops.
Why Move to BC? (Honestly, It Sells Itself)
If you’re on the fence, let me speak directly to you. Josie Osborne put it perfectly—BC is a warm, welcoming province with a universal, single-payer healthcare system. The values here remind me why I went into medicine: the focus is on community, patient care, and work-life balance. The province is diverse, with vibrant urban centers, charming small towns, and incredible access to nature—skiing, mountain biking, kayaking, or just raising a family in a beautiful environment.
My own journey involved a leap of faith—we moved to BC sight unseen due to pandemic restrictions, and it’s been the best move we ever made. The professional fulfillment and family life available here are truly unique.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Start at bchealthcareers.ca
Sign up for a webinar and connect with a HealthMatch BC navigator for personalized guidance.
Investigate your options on welcomebc.ca for immigration and settling.
Your skills and caring are needed here—and if you’re ready for a change, BC is more than ready to welcome you.
Thanks for reading and be sure to subscribe to The Interesting MD for more insights, stories, and real-world advice from the frontlines of medicine in British Columbia!
- Dr. Rob Beck, The Interesting MD