Over 30 U.S. Doctors Set to Join Manitoba’s Health Workforce

Efforts to attract American physicians to Manitoba are yielding significant results, with more than 33 U.S. doctors currently in various stages of recruitment. This initiative, confirmed by a spokesperson for the province’s health minister, aims to address the ongoing physician shortage in the region.

Health Minister Uzoma Asagwara expressed optimism about the influx of U.S. physicians. “I just had dinner last week with a doctor who is new to Manitoba and very excited to be joining our health-care workforce,” Asagwara stated, highlighting the enthusiasm among incoming professionals. The province’s recruitment strategy is largely facilitated by the newly established Health Care Retention and Recruitment Office, which was initiated last year.

Dr. Nichelle Desilets, president of Doctors Manitoba, emphasized the effectiveness of a team-based approach in attracting these physicians. The campaign targets U.S. doctors who are increasingly looking for opportunities outside their home country, particularly in the wake of political changes and healthcare policies that may restrict their practice.

Asagwara highlighted the appeal of Manitoba’s health care system, stating that incoming physicians appreciate not having to make medical decisions based on patients’ financial circumstances. “One of the things the U.S. physician made clear to me is that he’s not going to have to worry about bankrupting a family based on a treatment that might save their life,” he remarked.

Addressing Physician Shortages

Manitoba has faced challenges in providing timely medical care due to a lower number of physicians per capita compared to other Canadian provinces. According to Doctors Manitoba, many communities remain underserved, prompting calls for more focused recruitment efforts from the United States. The organization launched a targeted campaign back in November 2016, shortly after the election of former President Donald Trump, to attract physicians concerned about the political climate in the U.S.

Advertising campaigns were rolled out in various states, along with a dedicated website to provide information about practicing medicine in Manitoba. The initiative specifically aimed at recruiting physicians worried about restrictive healthcare policies in their home states, particularly those affecting reproductive health and gender-affirming care.

In response to these recruitment needs, Manitoba’s government approved regulatory changes in June that streamline the licensure process for U.S. doctors. These adjustments have made it easier for qualified physicians to gain full licensure in the province.

“It’s very encouraging to hear that 2025 is shaping up to be a record year,” Desilets noted. She attributed this progress to collaborative efforts among individual physicians, government initiatives, and modifications by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Manitoba.

Commitment to Diversity and Community Integration

Asagwara reiterated the province’s commitment to diversity in healthcare, stating, “We want people to know that this is a province for everyone.” This sentiment resonates widely, as evidenced by conversations with healthcare professionals from diverse backgrounds. He mentioned a doctor from the U.K. who has recently settled in Manitoba and is looking forward to her first winter in the province.

In recent months, Manitoba reported a record number of net new physicians. The total number of registered family physicians, specialists, and medical residents with full practice certificates reached 3,498 as of April 30, an increase from 3,334 the previous year, marking a net gain of 164 physicians.

Additionally, the province has invited 328 temporary foreign workers in healthcare to apply for its provincial nominee program, allowing them to seek permanent residency. This includes 21 physicians and various other healthcare professionals. Mayor Janice Smith of Killarney-Turtle Mountain noted that attracting healthcare providers to rural communities can be challenging, but the right candidates often find great value in small-town life.

As Manitoba continues its efforts to enhance its healthcare workforce, the province remains focused on recruiting qualified professionals to ensure residents receive timely and effective care. The ongoing collaboration among healthcare leaders, government officials, and the community is crucial in overcoming the challenges posed by physician shortages.