The future of general surgery in Canada

Abstract

Manpower studies carried out by the Canadian Association of General Surgeons revealed a need for approximately 70 new general surgeons to enter practice each year to replace those who will discontinue practice for various reasons. The Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada certifies about 70 general surgeons each year; however, two-thirds of these pursue further specialty training, leaving only 20 to 25 to continue in general surgery. Training programs in Canada are of variable length and content. Less than half the trainees have substantial research experience. Programs designed to train the comprehensive community general surgeon are lacking in Canadian medical schools and reductions in residency training posts and other governmental constraints may worsen the anticipated shortage of general surgeons. Strong leadership is needed to bring together organized medicine, the surgical specialties, universities and government to address the training and manpower requirements for general surgeons in Canada.