Breaking Barriers: New Research Calls for Equity in Licensing for Internationally Trained Physicians

Research Highlight - Mariana and Anjali's Advocacy for ITP Equity

ITPO members Dr. Mariana Jardim (Former Vice Chair and now PAR consultant) and Dr. Anjali Menezes have co-authored a powerful new article in the Canadian Family Physician journal that examines the systemic challenges faced by ITPs and calls for urgent reforms to support their integration into Canada's healthcare system.

"Although health leaders have emphasized harnessing the skills and work of physicians new to Canada, current policies enforcing mandated practice location restrictions..." the authors write.

The publication titled "Rethinking return-of-service mandates for international medical graduates", outlines the return-of-service (ROS) mandates as a key barrier for ITPs. ROS require ITPs to work in underserved or rural areas for a set period as a condition of receiving residency placements. While designed to address physician shortages, the authors argue that these policies often deepen inequities and fail to foster sustainable, community-based care.

"While mandatory ROS programs can increase short-term rural physician recruitment, evidence of long-term retention past the ROS period is weak."

Key Recommendations from the Article:

• Voluntary Incentives Over Mandates: Offer financial support, housing, and professional development opportunities to encourage physicians to choose underserved areas willingly.

• Community-Driven Models: Build long-term relationships between physicians and communities, rather than temporary placements.

• Supportive Infrastructure: Provide mentorship, peer networks, and continuing education to help ITPs succeed.

• Collaborative efforts: Strengthen partnerships between regulatory bodies, governments, and advocacy organizations.

These recommendations reflect a growing consensus: Canada’s healthcare system needs to adapt to better integrate ITPs, especially in the face of physician shortages and the rising demand for culturally competent care. 

Why It Matters

Canada is home to thousands of internationally trained physicians who face complex and often opaque licensing processes. Despite their skills and experience, many remain underemployed or excluded from clinical practice due to systemic barriers.

This research highlights both the urgency for reform and the opportunity to build a more equitable, efficient, and inclusive healthcare system.

At ITPO, we believe every ITP deserves a fair chance to contribute their expertise. Mariana and Anjali’s work is a testament to that belief, and we are proud to recognize their contributions.

Read the full article in Canadian Family Physician: https://www.cfp.ca/content/71/7-8/451