skybluepink

My husband and I are GP's and are thinking of moving from Wales to Canada next year. This site seems to be ideal for connecting with people who have been in the same situation .
I'd love to speak to anyone who has moved to the Okanagan / Vancouver area and who is practising Family Medicine. I'm very keen to find out if it's anything like working in the UK or if it's tougher!
I'd also love to speak to anyone with experience of how children have coped with the move into the Canadian schooling system.
Looking forward to chatting !!

bakedbean

Good evening and welcome to the forum.

I've shifted your post from the Welcome Inn to the Canada section of the forum, as you'll be more likely to get a good response to your questions in here.

All the best with your plans

Tirytory

Can't be much help with BC but we moved from Wales to Ontario with my GP husband and school age kids... Snoopdawg and Stinkypup are practising FP's in the Okanagan though...

skybluepink

Hi there thanks for replying ..it would be great to know how it went for you as a family.. Was it a good move for you on the whole & how long have you been there? Thanks

skybluepink

Thanks for moving my post from welcome inn to the Canada site, baked bean!

Tirytory

We've been here a year and overall it's been a good experience. I think my husband has a few frustrations with the system but generally enjoys the autonomy and ability to work the hrs he wants to... Having said that the government makes changes just as in the UK and there has been a few changes including a slight paycut. The lifestyle here is good though if you enjoy winter and summer outdoor activities and as two GP's potential for income should be great.

skybluepink

Thanks tirytory.. How did the kids cope? I have 2 boys who like outdoor activities

Tirytory

Well my two are skiing right now... They were 8 and 3 when we moved. I must admit that my son has struggled a little to fit in - he had very strong friendships he left behind- but he's getting there and really appreciates the weather and what you can do with it. The little one is great and she starts French immersion in September.

Tirytory

Have you looked into whether you meet the requirements for registration in BC? They differ from province to province and you need to ensure that you have done the necessary elements (paeds/obs) of your UK GP training..

skybluepink

Hi, yes I'm in touch with healthmatch BC and it seems I have the necessary requirements . Still a long way to go though! I haven't yet sent my documents to physicians apply..
We are planning a trip in the summer to check out areas/ jobs etc. such a big move, it's daunting !!

Tirytory

It took us a while to get here with the various parts of registration... Two yrs so best to get started.. It is daunting! What's leading the move?

skybluepink

I'll 'PM' you !

Tootlepootle

Can you move to Coquitlam BC? We are in desperate need of Family Doctors!!!!

Stinkypup

Wow, the Okanagan Valley has stretched somewhat !

Tootlepootle

Can we not be listed as south Okanagan then?!!! We are desperate!