Program Overview
LEF is aware of the rigorous, and expensive process in Canada of recognizing medical degrees earned abroad. Many qualified IMGs are not currently working in a health care related environment (in a non-practitioner capacity) despite their qualifications, and desire to do so.
In 2018 LEF conducted a profound employer, and labour market analysis. This analysis included requirements for employment in health promotion, and health education, Labour market information, and skills gap analysis. It reports on the skills employers believe IMGs require, in order to obtain gainful employment within Canada’s health care ecosystem. Communication skills were often cited as an important qualification, together with computer/technology skills, understanding the Canadian health care system, presentation skills, and cross-cultural communication. Employers identified some positions required specialized certifications, while other positions required specialized training provided by the employer. Additionally, we researched IMGs to understand the unique skills they bring to the sector, and to rank their competency in non-practitioner skills.
From this analysis, we focused on avenues in which IMGs could find meaningful employment within the fields of health promotion, and health education. To support this, we developed a training plan to equip IMGs for employment within Ontario’s the health care ecosystem.
Based on the skills identified by potential employers, four courses (45 hours per course) have been designed to assist IMGs to prepare for working in a non-practitioner role in Ontario. LEF partnered with Ontario Public Health Association (OPHA) to provide credible, and quality course content.
1. Public Health & Health Care Systems in Ontario
This course introduces students to research, and major societal concerns pertinent to health care delivery in Ontario. Including Public Health core competencies.
2. Health Promotion & Educational Foundations
This course introduces students to the Ottawa Charter for Health Promotion, and provides a detailed study into community development, program planning, and evaluation of community-level health initiatives.
3. Business Communication & Cultural Competence This course introduces students to business culture in Canada, with a primary focus on communication. In addition, this course provides an introduction to digital office tools used by many organizations.
4. Careers In this course, students explore career, and employment opportunities related to health promotion, and health education, as well as develop job search skills, and networking skills.
Upon completion of the training program, participants will possess the necessary skills identified by prospective employers to successfully find meaningful employment, while best using their knowledge, and expertise to enhance their contribution to health promotion, and health education in Ontario.
The participants are from around the globe, speak multiple languages, and therefore understand the nuances in communicating with, and caring for a culturally diverse population.
Admission requirements
Earned Medical Degree from an institution outside of Canada (WES or other academic equivalency required)
Living in Canada for 7 years or less
- Status: Permanent Resident, Convention Refugee or Refugee Claimant, Naturalized Canadian Citizen
- English Level: CLB score of 8
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Live in Ontario
Contact/Information: Learn@lefca.org 416 769 0830