Table of Contents
Why is this orientation offered?
Physicians trained outside Canada have identified the need for a more robust orientation program to support their integration into medical practice in the Canadian context. The Welcome Collaborative is intended to support physicians new to Nova Scotia before or soon after entering practice in Nova Scotia through the implementation of support, including orientation, to successfully integrate into the healthcare system.
When is the next orientation offered?
Orientation sessions are scheduled for the following dates:
- June 5–7, 2024
- September 11–13, 2024
- December 4-6, 2024
More dates will be added soon.
Who must participate in the orientation?
The orientation is mandatory for physicians trained outside of North America holding a defined license, or a full license through the College of Family Physicians of Canada (CFPC) reciprocity, who are licensed on or after September 1, 2022 or an academic licensee trained outside of North America.
Where will the orientation take place?
The orientation will be held in-person at the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Nova Scotia’s office in Bedford, Nova Scotia.
The College is located on the fourth floor at 175 Western Parkway, Bedford, NS B4B 0V1.
To give you some directions:
Coming from Sackville or the Valley:
From Highway 102, take Exit 3 to Bedford. When you come to the end of the ramp and are at the set of lights, you will turn left, and then Innovation Drive is the first street on the left.
Coming from Halifax:
From Highway 102, take Exit 3B. When you come to the end of the ramp and are at the set of lights, you will turn left, and then Innovation Drive is the first street on the left.
Westway Parkway is the first street on the left. You will then see two stop signs; take the one to the right and follow the driveway around the Bell Building. The building is directly behind the Bell building. There is plenty of parking.
Once inside, you will take the elevator to the 4th floor. The reception desk is straight ahead of you as you get off the elevator.
What topics will we cover?
Topics will include an orientation to the Canadian health care system, settlement resources for you and your family, identifying, acknowledging, and overcoming barriers to practice in NS, medical record-keeping, MSI billing, communication skills training, and more.
What do I need to bring?
A laptop, notebook, and pen.
Can I attend online/virtually?
You must attend the orientation session in person. During the orientation, you will meet healthcare leaders, key contacts, and other internationally trained physicians who are beginning practice in the province.
We will offer some follow-up orientation topics as webinars. The goal is to build up the online content as the program is developed to make it more convenient for physicians to access.
What if I get sick?
If you’re sick, reach out to us to let us know. Email or call us and leave a message: welcomecollaborative@cpsns.ns.ca or (902) 377-4507.
Will I be compensated for my time and travel costs (if applicable) during the orientation?
Your expenses for travel within the province, meals, and accommodation will be paid as per the Expense Policy for the Welcome Collaborative.
I will need accommodations in Bedford. Where should I stay?
If you need to travel into the Halifax area from another part of the province, you can book a hotel. We recommend you book accommodations early and check the cancellation policy before booking.
Here are a few hotels in the area:
Comfort Inn Halifax (on Bedford Highway)
I have a question about the orientation. Whom can I contact?
Please reach out at welcomecollaborative@cpsns.ns.ca.
