Five new doctors will begin working soon in Westman.
Prairie Mountain Health says one of the initiatives the region utilizes as part of its overall recruitment strategy is the provincial Medical Licensure Program for International Medical Graduates (MLPIMG). The ‘IMG Program’ assists foreign-trained doctors in obtaining their medical license to be able to practice as a primary care (family) physician in Manitoba.
“Over the past year, the region sponsored five physicians to participate in the ‘IMG’ Program,” said Brian Schoonbaert, PMH CEO. “After much consideration, doctors that have now successfully graduated from the program are being strategically placed at various sites within PMH communities (or nearby areas) that require additional sufficient physician resources.”
This year, these communities include Killarney, Minnedosa, Roblin and Swan River. Physicians and anticipated start dates are:
• Dr. Saheed Balogun, Killarney Medical Clinic (commenced practice on Aug. 17);
• Dr. Aisha Jan, Killarney Medical Clinic (anticipated start date Sept.15);
• Dr. Manal El-Mazahy, Minnedosa Medical Group (anticipated start date mid-Sept.);
• Dr. Michael Abdalmassih, Swan River Primary Care Centre (anticipated start date mid-Sept.);
• Dr. Hina Atif, Roblin Medical Centre (anticipated start date early Oct.).
In return for regional sponsorship, IMG doctors agree to practice in their respective communities for four years. The Program is supported by the University of Manitoba – Max Rady College of Medicine, the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Manitoba and Manitoba Health and Seniors Care.
“The International Medical Graduates program is a wonderful example of partners coming together to keep Manitobans healthy,” said Minister of Health and Seniors Care Audrey Gordon. “The program supports physician placement in much needed rural communities throughout the province by matching them with internationally trained physicians. The province is proud to support this program and deliver quality care to all Manitobans.”
