What Do We Know and Not Know about the Professional Integration of International Medical Graduates (IMGs) in Canada?

The literature on international medical graduates (IMGs) in Canada is growing, but there is a lack of systematic analysis of the literature.

To examine (1) the major themes in academic and grey literature pertaining to professional integration of IMGs in Canada; and (2) the gaps in our knowledge on integration of IMGs.

This paper is based on the scoping review of academic and grey literature published during 2001-2013 about IMGs in Canada.

The literature on IMGs focuses on (1) pre-immigration activities; (2) early-arrival activities; (3) credential recognition/professional recertification; (4) bridging and residency training; (5) workplace integration; and (6) alternative paths to integration. The gaps in the literature include pre-immigration and early-arrival activities, and alternative paths for integration for those IMGs who do not pursue medical license.

Pre-immigration and early-arrival activities and alternative career paths for IMGs should be addressed in academic and policy research.