Research Projects 

To continue to be an informed resource and advocate for IMGs, AIMGA scans research and conducts studies on key issues affecting IMGs in our province and across the country.  We also collaborate with other organizations to conduct and disseminate research to IMGs and other important groups such as the government and the medical community.

The following sections provide some information about some current IMG research projects and studies.

A Longitudinal Study of the Professional Integration of IMGs

Dr. Claudio Violato, PhD is conducting a study to investigate the process necessary for IMGs to compete for the limited number of residency positions in Alberta, and the impact of this process on those who are successful and unsuccessful. 

For information about the study, or to participate in the study, please refer to this handout or visit the study's website at http://imgstudy.ca/index.php. 

"Fast-Track" Assessment Models

In early 2009, AIMGA received significant project funding to research the development of a “fast-track” model to integrate IMGs into Alberta’s medical system. 

Funded by Citizenship and Immigration Canada, the project “Creating a Fair and Equitable Fast Track Assessment Process for Alberta International Graduates”, is designed to create a model for assessment, orientation and training to facilitate IMG licensure within Alberta.  The terms of reference include engaging non-university hospitals and family practice areas which have the potential to carry out evaluations, and so would increase the capacity to support assessment and training positions.  The project, which ends in March 2010, will conclude with a Roundtable Conference to develop specific recommendations and plans for implementation.   One of the important outcomes of the project will be that of initiating a dialogue with key stakeholders with the ultimate aim of implementing a successful engagement plan for the integration process in Alberta.

The project is intended to build on the recommendations of the 2004 Report of the Canadian Taskforce on Licensure of International Graduates to increase the capacity to assess and prepare IMGs for licensure.  A survey of the programs and resources in other Canadian jurisdictions is being undertaken as well as an examination other models which have been developed in the past few years to enhance IMG integration.  Once the research is completed, a Steering Committee will evaluate the results, develop a model relevant to the Alberta context and study the feasibility applying the model.

Initial research for the project is already underway.  Susan McMahon was appointed Research Coordinator for the project and will be responsible for conducting the relevant research, as well as coordinating the overall development of the project, facilitating the efforts of the Steering and Working Committees, and organizing the final conference.  In 2001, Susan received her doctorate in the history of science from the University of Alberta, and enjoyed a two year post-doctoral research fellowship at the Max Planck Institute für Wissenschaftsgischte in Berlin Germany.  As a contract researcher, she has also been involved in First Nations land claims investigations.

For more information on this project, please feel free to contact us.

Project funding provided by: