Canadian University Press Releases/Newswire

Source: University of Manitoba
http://myuminfo.umanitoba.ca/index.asp?sec=209&too=100&dat=10/28/2006&sta=3&wee=4&eve=8&npa=11554

OPENING DOORS TO A CAREER IN FAMILY MEDICINE

October 23, 2006

Today, the department of family medicine, the Faculty of Medicine, Manitoba Health and the Office of Rural and Northern Health are partnering in a new project to attract more students to a career in family medicine.

An initiative of this kind is a first in Canada and the department of family medicine is taking this step to ensure that Manitoba will continue to have well educated and trained family physicians.

"We want to send a clear message to those considering a career in health care that family medicine is one of the most versatile and rewarding career choices... intellectually, personally and financially, that any student can choose," says Dr. Larry Reynolds, head, family medicine.

The launch of marketing materials will help address the physician shortage experienced in Manitoba and across Canada. The campaign will promote the diversity and flexibility of a career in family medicine through radio ads, billboards, brochures and posters delivered to Manitoba high schools and universities.

"Every province is dealing with a shortage of doctors," says Minister of Health, the Honourable Theresa Oswald. "Recruitment and retention of doctors, indeed all health professionals, is a key priority for Manitoba. We need to continue to take innovative steps such as this campaign to increase the number of doctors in the province."

This year the University of Manitoba Faculty of Medicine accepted 100 first year medical students, the largest class in 30 years. The department of family medicine has also increased the number of new graduating family physicians from its program. This year marks the largest intake, with 33 new residents in the program and a total of 66 residents in all family medicine programs.

For more information, contact:
Chris Rutkowski
Media Relations Coordinator
Public Affairs
rutkows@ms.umanitoba.ca
Phone: (204) 474-9514
Fax: (204) 474-7631