Fast-Track Registration Removes Administrative Burden for Out-of-Province Physicians to Practice in Manitoba

WINNIPEG, MB – January 11, 2023 - The College of Physicians and Surgeons of Manitoba (CPSM) announced a Fast-Track Registration pathway today that expedites registration for physicians who meet the national standards for full registration. This move opens the door for more out-of-province physicians fully licensed in another Canadian jurisdiction to begin practicing medicine in Manitoba faster.

As the regulatory body for the medical profession, CPSM has a duty to protect the public’s interest. That includes ensuring physicians meet the established requirements to practice in Manitoba.

Documentation and information required for registration in Manitoba include medical school diplomas, certificates of postgraduate studies, and certificates of professional conduct from all jurisdictions where a physician has previously registered and/or practiced. Requesting, obtaining, and submitting these records can add weeks or months to the process, particularly if the applicant requires documents from international institutions.

 Fast-Track Registration reduces the administrative burden on the physician applying, saving them time and the effort required to obtain records. There is no risk to public safety – the established qualifications for registration remain the same and must be met.  

Fast Track Registration allows physicians who qualify for full, unrestricted licensure and are in good standing with another college in a Canadian jurisdiction that has already validated and verified their records to bypass submitting these records when they apply for registration in Manitoba. Physicians must also have up-to-date continuing professional development hours and a Certificate of Professional Conduct that is clear of any significant issues from another college in a Canadian jurisdiction.

“It is a step towards national recognition of medical professional qualifications,” said Dr. Anna Ziomek, CPSM Registrar and CEO. “Fast Track Registration supports the mobility of physicians within the country by providing an accelerated application process that will make practicing in Manitoba more attractive for out-of-province physicians.

Manitoba follows B.C., the first jurisdiction to roll out a fast-track licensure last year, and Newfoundland and Labrador, which is making legislative amendments to ease the process for out-of-province physicians to become licensed. 

More information is available on the CPSM website at cpsm.mb.ca/registration/fast-track-registration.

About The College of Physicians & Surgeons of Manitoba (CPSM)

CPSM is the medical regulatory body that oversees the practice of medicine in Manitoba. CPSM’s role is to protect the public and promote the safe and ethical delivery of quality medical care by physicians in Manitoba.