MULTI-STAKEHOLDER WORK GROUP A collaborative model for making systemic change in regulated occupations

Who We Are 3,700 clients served annually 1,700 new clients annually 450+ trained volunteers 120 qualified staff 90 countries of client origin 100+ NS communities served 30 countries of staff origin 4 offices – Halifax, Truro, Bridgewater, Sydney 15,000+ visitors annually through reception 16,000 calls annually

Working with clients in regulated occupations Pre and Post arrival Navigate pathways to licensure Refer to regulators & employers Profession specific programs Explore alternative careers

Multi-stakeholder Work Group Model Grounded in principles of the Pan-Canadian framework on IQR Supports the intention of NS Fair Registration Practices Act (FRPA) Recognizes that IQR challenges are not owned by regulatory bodies alone Takes a collaborative approach to removing barriers and developing innovative programs

Who needs to be at the table? Regulatory bodies Professional associations Educational institutions Employers and/or employer organizations Unions Government departments Representatives of internationally educated professionals Immigrant settlement services Sector Councils

Purpose Identify issues, share information and discuss potential solutions Incubate and develop collaborative programs Provide advisory function to bridging programs Liaise with Pan-Canadian and provincial IQR Facilitate exploration of alternative careers

Addressing the Challenges Credibility Networks Profession specific Engage the right stakeholders Leadership / Co-chair Make it easy Sustain momentum

Active Work Groups Internationally Educated Nurses (RN & LPN) International Pharmacy Graduates International Medical Graduates Internationally Educated Dental Professionals Internationally Educated Medical Lab Techs Internationally Educated Engineers Internationally Trained Lawyers Internationally Trained Construction

Outcomes Substantive changes to pathways New pathway to licensure for Physicians Development of orientation to Canadian dental practice program 90% success rate in national pharmacy exams Creation of Observership program for IMGS & Med 3 Clerkships

Outcomes - Pharmacists Process changes & elimination of barriers: -Requirement for hospital based internship removed -Flexibility in timing & order of exams and internship Collaborative programs & supports: -IPG On-site Program provides workplace-based observational experience -Communications Skills Labs – huge impact on client success -Pharmacy Association – special IPG membership Valuing & recognizing collaboration: -Continuing education credits awarded to Skills Lab facilitators -Craig Ennett Annual Award recognizes contribution of a Canadian licensed pharmacist

Testimonials “ I believe IQR issues are too complex and cross too many areas to be taken on by one group, collaboration & integration of work is essential and the multi- stakeholder work group model facilitates this.” “As a result of my participation… I feel more knowledgeable about the issues associated with becoming registered in my professional group than my counterparts in other provinces that don’t have regular communication with their stakeholders.” “Collaboration enhances the knowledge and understanding of the various issues facing internationally educated professionals. It also distributes the workload in dealing and improving the issues.” “The Multi-stakeholder Work Group model is a powerful, proven and practical tool for realizing the fundamental intention of the Fair Registration Practices Act.”

Conclusion Profession-specific Multi-stakeholder Work Groups = an effective strategy for addressing complex challenges of IQR - Barriers identified and removed - Innovative programs incubated & developed But having all key players at the same table also facilitates the Alternative Careers Agenda Effective forums to explore, brainstorm, research, identify skills transferability, create pathways and disseminate information about alternative careers

Thank you Claudette Legault Director of Programs and Services