Seeking eligible physicians to assist with health system strains due to COVID-19
In response to this unprecedented health crisis, the College is broadening its call-out to eligible physicians to activate licensure on an as-needed basis in the emergency class of registration.
Eligible physicians are:
- BC physicians who recently retired (no more than two years ago)
Recently retired physicians must concurrently be privileged by one of the regional health authorities. Coverage with the CMPA must be reinstated prior to registration being granted. It is anticipated that critical shortages will exist in roles related to health authority service provision. Recently retired physicians should contact the College at emergency@cpsbc.ca to express their interest.
- R5 and R4 residents in internal medicine
R5 and R4 residents in internal medicine are eligible if they hold RCPSC certification and LMCC, and are asked by a health authority to provide services. R5 and R4 residents do not need to change their current resident coverage with the CMPA while on the emergency register. It is assumed that eligible residents will return to their residency when the emergency is declared over.
- Physicians in the academic class of registration
Effective immediately, physicians who are licensed in the academic class of registration who currently must limit their clinical work to 40% will be relieved of this requirement during the COVID-19 crisis. The College will notify all physicians in the academic class when the emergency is declared over and limitations on practice will be reinstated.
- Clinical fellows in the last year of their three-year fellowship
Clinical fellows in the last year of their three-year fellowship can extend their registration for six months upon request by contacting emergency@cpsbc.ca.
- Physicians licensed for independent practice elsewhere in Canada or the USA
Although the College anticipates a low response from physicians in other jurisdictions given the growing need across the globe, physicians who hold a licence for independent practice in Canada or the USA are eligible for emergency registration in BC. Interested physicians should contact the College by emailing emergency@cpsbc.ca.
The College and health authorities are very grateful for the response to date from recently retired physicians. More than ever, it is imperative that we work together to ensure our health system remains strong and able to deal with this challenge today and in the weeks ahead.
Thank you for all that you are doing to support your colleagues and care for BC patients.
Heidi M. Oetter, MD
Registrar and CEO