WIL Employment Connections

Access Centre forms study groups

The Access Centre for Regulated Employment has initiated an exam study group of International Medical Graduates (IMGs) preparing for their first exam in the licensure process for physicians.  The Medical Council of Canada Evaluating Exam (MCCEE) is a critical exam for IMGs on their journey to becoming a physician in Ontario. 

Facilitated by an Access Centre counsellor, the study group meets regularly at the Access Centre after selecting a leader and developing an appropriate study schedule.  Feedback from participants has been so positive, that the Access Centre is currently in the process of developing 4 new study groups for IMGs.  Additional occupations will be added as demand is identified and/or required.  In addition to facilitating the matching of clients by occupation and coordinating the groups, the Access Centre provides meeting and study space in its boardroom.  Access to study materials and necessary supports is also provided - including textbooks, computer software, Internet access and a digital projector to assist participants. 

Peer-to-peer matching and support is the hallmark of success for this initiative. One of the groups participants recently noted that “studying with other physicians from different countries has provided us an opportunity to share our medical experience and books that we need.  Moreover, we have different backgrounds, so we can help each other in different topics. As an international medical graduate it has been a great experience.”
Matching is already underway for the next study group. 

New partnership with Schulich School of Medicine

WIL is very appreciative of the support we receive from the employer community.  In the fall of 2008, Jason Eadie, Manager, Continuing Medical Education, Schulich School of Medicine at The University of Western Ontario agreed to host a client for a volunteer work experience placement. The position was a Research Assistant and the role involved conducting market research. This opportunity not only enabled the client to demonstrate her research, business strategy and problem solving skills, but it also enabled the employer to complete an important project. Through this experience, Jason realized the value the client was able to bring to his work and as a result, he hired her for a contract position. Jason is currently communicating with WIL regarding future placement opportunities which will potentially provide International Medical Graduates an opportunity to network with professionals in the Medical field. Thank you, Jason, for your partnership with WIL.