CPSA expanded sponsorship model supports 370 new family medicine positions; specialist applications now open

Edmonton, AB – The College of Physicians & Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA) is pleased to announce the addition of 370 new sponsored family medicine positions in Alberta since expanding our sponsorship model in March 2024. Sponsorship is a key step towards bringing internationally trained physicians into the province.

Since 2015, Alberta Health Services (AHS) had been the sole sponsor for physicians going through CPSA’s assessment process and into independent practice, basing available positions on areas of highest need across the province. While AHS sponsored positions continue to serve these communities, CPSA opened sponsorship opportunities to individuals, organizations, corporations, and others with interest to apply to sponsor a family medicine physician position in their desired community.

“We recognize Alberta is in dire need of physicians to support patients across the province and CPSA is continuously looking for ways to be part of the collective solution,” says Dr. Scott McLeod, CPSA Registrar and CEO. “CPSA has been blown away by the number of applications received to date and we truly appreciate those who are able to step up and sponsor a physician position for their community.”

Following the successful launch of the sponsorship expansion for family medicine positions, CPSA is further expanding the program to include applications to sponsor specialist physician positions for a community clinic practice (i.e. non-hospital).

“Every sponsored physician brings us closer to ensuring more Albertans have access to a primary healthcare provider and timely, high-quality primary health care, no matter where they live,” says Adriana LaGrange, Minister of Health. “Through these partnerships, we are strengthening Alberta’s healthcare system for all Albertans, now and for generations to come.”

For more information on sponsorship, including becoming a sponsor, please visit our website at cpsa.ca/sponsorship.