The University of Manitoba Family Medicine Residents attended a retreat in Steinbach this past weekend to encourage interest in rural and northern opportunities to practice medicine.

“Each year, residents come together to take part in a job fair, continuing medical education, networking and team building,” said Jane Curtis, CEO for Southern Health-Santé Sud. “Holding this event in Steinbach allows the medical residents to learn more about possible employment opportunities and encourages them to consider practicing in rural Manitoba once their education is complete.”

The career fair is attended by a variety of physician employers and support businesses, including regional health authorities, clinics, communities and even financial institutions.

The host of the event assists with local arrangements and takes the opportunity to profile their region and recruitment needs. This year’s host for the event was Southern Health-Santé Sud.

“This year we had the honour of hosting over 100 medical residents in our region and showcase rural Manitoba hospitality while providing some quality continuing medical education,” shares Dr. Denis Fortier, Regional Lead – Medical Services and Chief Medical Officer for Southern Health-Santé Sud. “Our region is home to several University of Manitoba clinical teaching units and we are proud to be doing our part in offering a unique rural perspective to family medicine.”

The retreat was organized by a committee with representation from the U of M residents, the Max Rady College of Medicine post-graduate family medicine program, Shared Health, Steinbach Family Medical and the host region Southern Health-Santé Sud.

“This is my second time attending a Family Medicine Resident Retreat, and once again it was enjoyable and informative. The mix of educational opportunities, wellness activities, and career exploration was great. It was also my first-time visiting Steinbach, which was a very warm and welcoming community!” said participating resident Dr. Jason Ching.

All continuing medical education will be delivered by provincial experts and local physicians from the clinics and facilities within the region. For more information on physician recruitment in Manitoba, visit: Health Careers Manitoba