The Canadian general internist: education and future role

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Health Workforce Planning
• Internal Medicine

Background:

• Manpower data reveal an ongoing need for general internists in Canada.
• These specialists are crucial for both community hospitals and university medical centers.

Purpose of the Study:

• To outline the essential roles and required training experiences for general internists.
• To inform the development of effective specialist training programs.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of available manpower data to project future needs.
• Identification of key clinical roles and responsibilities for general internists.

Main Results:

• General internists will primarily serve in consultative roles, manage complex illnesses, and participate in intensive care.
• Training must encompass consultative medicine, chronic care follow-up, and diverse intensive care settings.

Conclusions:

• Specialized training programs are essential to meet the projected demand for general internists.
• The integration of general internal medicine divisions with equal status in university departments is a positive development for training.