Worried residents watch and wait
Online posting: July 3, 1997
Published in print: August 1, 1997 CMAJ 1997;157:253
Re: For first time, unemployment line awaits group of new
Canadian specialists, Patrick Sullivan, CMAJ
1997;156:1739-41[full text / en bref]
I would like to clarify my position concerning residents who
are considering a switch from radiation oncology to another
training program. Radiation oncology residents should not
arbitrarily leave their program unless they have a strong
interest in and desire to change the focus of their training. I
strongly support any residents who wish to change programs and
support their right to do so. Forcing residents to proceed in a
program that offers restricted employment opportunities benefits
neither the health care system nor the population we serve. Given
the current employment situation in radiation oncology, program
directors nationally have agreed to support any resident who
wishes to proceed to training in another discipline.
At this time, 80% of 39 candidates have passed the recent
Royal College examination in radiation oncology; 22 of these
physicians have guaranteed employment in the field for the coming
year, and the rest continue to look for work.
A demonstrated need for radiation oncologists exists in
Canada. Finding the funds to meet this need is a challenge that
continues to face our profession.
Juhu Kamra, MD
Chair
Committee of Residents and Fellows
Canadian Association of Radiation Oncology
Hamilton, Ont.
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