CPSA modernizes registration to strengthen Alberta’s physician workforce

The College of Physicians & Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA) is taking bold steps to strengthen Alberta’s physician workforce by streamlining registration processes for international medical graduates (IMGs) from approved jurisdictions, while continuing to uphold high standards of medical care for patients across Alberta.

Physicians who hold credentials from approved jurisdictions that have been deemed as substantially equivalent to Canadian standards will now be eligible for full licensure without undergoing additional assessments. This builds on the success of CPSA’s Accelerated Jurisdiction Route (now renamed the Approved Jurisdiction Route), which has consistently demonstrated strong physician performance and safe patient outcomes.

“These changes reflect our commitment to responsible innovation in medical regulation,” says Dr. Scott McLeod, CPSA Registrar & CEO. “We are reducing barriers while maintaining the standards that Albertans count on and deserve. We believe it’s a practical, thoughtful approach to strengthening our healthcare system and ensuring timely access to safe, competent care.”

This change is based on years of evidence and reflects CPSA’s ongoing efforts to align with pan-Canadian goals for registration modernization and equitable access for qualified IMGs.

“I am pleased with the CPSA’s modernization of the registration system for IMGs in Alberta,” says Adriana LaGrange, Minister of Primary and Preventative Health Services. “This initiative will strengthen Alberta’s health workforce, reduce red tape and ensure qualified individuals can work in our province.”

CPSA is dedicated to supporting access to safe patient care and will continue to monitor outcomes while looking at ways to enhance our registration processes.