Foreign Trained Doctors in Hamilton to receive more assistance from The Bridge Program for International Medical Doctors (IMDs) Hamilton, Ontario.

For many years, Foreign Trained Doctors in Hamilton had received help from this program. There are some who are already practicing Medicine thanks to this. A new temporary home located at 182 Rebecca St and Ferguson St N, Hamilton is the place where every Wednesday night these physicians are invited to get free training for the up-coming exams. Good communication and clinical skills in the Canadian setting are essential in order to get good scores” said Sara Cymbalisty who is running The Bridge Program on a volunteering basis. The preparation for the Clinical Examination (CE1) and LMCC or MCCQEII is conducted by the use of well -trained standardized patients just like a real exam. The emphasis is on skills for practice not just exam preparation.

In a friendly environment, International Medical Doctors actively participate during the history taking and physical examination. In a much focused approach, they have the opportunity to refresh their skills, share their experiences and learn what Canadian patients expect from them, as well as the Health Care System at different levels. Diagnosing, treating and ordering the necessary tests are part of this training. Delivering good/bad news, donation of organs and other ethical dilemmas continue to be a priority to discuss.

Beside the support offered by the specialist in patient communication, physicians who have experience in Canada have volunteered their time to assist these doctors.

This innovative way of training cannot be replaced by studying at home with a book. Foreign Trained Doctors are encouraged to take part of this if they really want to obtain good scores.

Practicing with standardized patients is one of the best ways to succeed on the exams; it also prepares them for the real world. Memorizing lines from books could result in disaster that will lead to low scores or failing the test. Unfortunately, this has happened and The Bridge Program has welcomed those and new candidates.

Despite the help The Bridge program in Hamilton is offering to foreign trained doctors, it is urgent to get funding and more attention from the government and officials. This is a true and only help to Foreign Trained Doctors in Hamilton before taking their clinical exams. We need to keep THE BRIDGE PROGRAM running. The sooner these doctors get in the system; Hamiltonians will have more options to choose from. Talk to your MPs and spread the need for funding and supporting this wonderful cause. Leave your comments and share your thought with us.