The OTPC program has been developed in response to historical areas of weakness seen in International Medical Graduates (IMGs) during their specialty residencies. Its purpose is to prepare candidates for a successful transition into residency by focusing on communication skills and Canadian medical culture.
All candidates accepted into specialty PGY1 residency positions in Ontario medical schools will participate in the OTPC program. It is an intensive preparatory program that addresses key competency areas while giving candidates a safe environment to hone their skills before residency. The program is four weeks in duration and must be completed prior to the commencement of the residency program.
What topics will be covered in the program?
The topics covered focus on communication skills, the patient-centered interview, CanMeds, and Canadian medical culture. There will also be information sessions from medical organizations such as CPSO, OMA, PAIRO, WSIB, CMPA and Health Force Ontario.
If I am a Canadian citizen, do I have to participate in the OTPC program?
All internationally trained physicians who have received acceptance for a Specialty Residency Training Program in Ontario are required to complete the program.
Who can I contact to apply for an exemption from the OTPC program?
In certain specialized circumstances, candidates may contact their program director and apply to be exempt from the program before beginning residency. CEHPEA does not grant exemptions directly to candidates.
Will I be paid during the OTPC program?
The Ontario Medical Association may provide a small bursary for candidates involved in the course, otherwise there will be no remuneration for candidates participating in the Orientation to Training and Practice in Canada program.
Will there be any provision for accommodation?
There will not be any provision for accommodation provided to the candidates. CEHPEA can provide a list** of short-term rental accommodations for candidates travelling to Toronto to take part in the program.
**CEHPEA is providing these links only as a convenience, and the inclusion of any link does not imply endorsement by CEHPEA nor can CEHPEA be held responsible in anyway for the content found on any third-party website.
What are the dates of the OTPC program?
The OTPC program has been scheduled for 5 sessions in 2010, all to be completed by August 13th, 2010. These sessions are as follows:
OTPC Cohort 2010A: May 3rd to May 28th, 2010
OTPC Cohort 2010B: May 3rd to May 28th, 2010
OTPC Cohort 2010C: May 31st to June 25th, 2010
OTPC Cohort 2010D: May 31st to June 25th, 2010
OTPC Cohort 2010E: July 12th to August 6th, 2010
When will I find out which session I am expected to attend?
All candidates will be notified by CEHPEA within two weeks after the successful CaRMS match candidates are announced.
What is the daily format of the program? Will there be any evening or weekend sessions?
The OTPC sessions are scheduled to run from 9:00am- 4:00pm, Monday to Friday. There will be one weekend session for ACLS training.
Does CEHPEA provide ACLS training for the OTPC candidates?
ACLS certification training is included in the OTPC program and will be held over one weekend.
What will happen if I fail OTPC program?
The OTPC program is not evaluative in nature; however the attendance record of each candidate will be passed on to the specialty program directors.
What is an Assessment Verification Period (AVP)? Do I need to complete the AVP as well as the OTPC program?
All IMG candidates accepted to an Ontario residency training programs will be required to undergo an Assessment Verification Period (AVP). This assessment period is 12 weeks in length and is required by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario to meet its licensure requirements. If the candidate does not successfully complete the AVP, he or she must leave the residency training program. The OTPC program must be completed prior to the commencement of the Assessment Verification Period.
