NOSM University Launches Four New Residency Programs to Address Physician Shortages

As NOSM University marks its 20th anniversary, it has announced the launch of four new residency programs aimed at tackling critical physician shortages in Northern Ontario. This decision highlights the institution’s commitment to improving healthcare access in the region, as it stands as Canada’s only independent medical university.

The newly introduced residency programs include medical oncology, emergency medicine, family medicine enhanced skills in palliative care, and obstetrics and gynecology. Each program is designed to enhance the medical education capacity of NOSM University and address ongoing health inequities faced by communities in Northern Ontario.

Dr. Rob Anderson, associate dean of Postgraduate Medical Education, emphasized the significance of these programs, stating, “These new residency programs represent a major step forward in NOSM University’s expansion plan and in transforming access to health care in Northern Ontario.” He also acknowledged the collaborative efforts of local hospitals, clinics, health-care professionals, and community partners, which are crucial for providing exceptional training to residents while strengthening the local health system.

The initiative aligns with NOSM University’s ambitious growth targets, aiming to increase the number of medical students from 64 to 108 and incoming residents from 60 to 123 by 2028. The university is headquartered in Sudbury and Thunder Bay.

Program Details and Community Impact

The new residency programs are tailored to meet specific healthcare needs in Northern Ontario.

In medical oncology, residents will undergo training at leading hospitals and cancer centres across the region. This program focuses on providing comprehensive education in cancer care and research that is aligned with the needs of local patients.

The emergency medicine program, an addition to the existing Family Medicine Emergency Medicine stream, will offer high-fidelity simulation training. This includes procedural skills, crisis management, and team-based care, preparing residents to deliver quality emergency care in underserved communities.

The palliative care program spans 12 months and is intended for Family Medicine graduates. It emphasizes holistic and compassionate care for patients with life-limiting illnesses and offers longitudinal exposure throughout the patient’s journey.

In the realm of obstetrics and gynecology, the program will focus on reproductive health and surgical care, training physicians to serve rural and remote populations. This initiative aims to enhance equity, access, and culturally safe care in Northern Ontario.

According to Dr. Michael Green, president, vice-chancellor, dean, and CEO of NOSM University, the addition of these residency programs is made possible by the provincial government’s expansion of medical education placements. He noted the critical nature of this step, stating, “This is a vital step toward improving access to care in Northern Ontario by training more physicians where they are needed most.”

The introduction of these programs reflects a proactive response to the urgent physician shortages that have long affected Northern Ontario, ensuring that local communities can benefit from improved healthcare services. As NOSM University continues to evolve, these new residency programs are positioned to make a meaningful impact on the region’s health landscape.