In this Report

Message from the Registrar & CEO
Improving access to safe, competent care remains the sole theme of the College’s Strategic Plan. Composed of practising physicians and public members, the College’s governing Council is singularly focused on improving access to safe care for Nova Scotians.
Access to care is not simply a Nova Scotia issue. It is a national and global issue. When it comes to primary care, Health Canada estimates our country is 13,000 family physicians short. While efforts are being made to expand medical faculties and residency programs, our short and intermediate-term needs can only be met through the successful recruitment, retention and licensure of internationally trained physicians.
The world is now competing for these physicians. For Nova Scotia’s recruiting initiatives to keep pace, our province turns to the College for licensing policies that are safe and innovative.
As Chair of the Committee on Medical Licensure in Canada, I can say this is a time of rapid change in medical regulation with all Canadian jurisdictions looking for ways to license competent physicians.
In many ways, our College is leading this change, with pilot projects, policies and partnerships that open the door wider to license internationally trained physicians. To do so, we are leaning on rigorous work-place based assessment, while moving away from strict reliance on high-stakes, point-in-time written examinations. I am grateful to the Registration Policy Committee of the Council, which continues to support this brave new approach.
While we are opening the door wider, we are not lowering the bar of competence. The College’s fundamental commitment is to public safety. Nova Scotians expect, and are entitled to expect, safe and competent medical care.
In many ways, our College is leading this change, with pilot projects, policies and partnerships that open the door wider to license internationally trained physicians.
There has been a lot accomplished in 2024, with much more remaining. The Access to Care Report highlights the initiatives and progress of the last year.
D.A. (Gus) Grant, AB, LLB, MD, CCFP, ICD.D
Registrar & CEO
Licensing Data
Increase in physicians licensed December 31, 2021 to December 31, 2024