Discover Enhanced Surgical Skills: A Vital Career in Rural Medicine
Enhanced Surgical Skills (ESS) & Obstetrical Surgical Skills (OSS) in Canada
ESS and OSS practice in rural Canada.
Enhanced Surgical Skills (ESS) and Obstetrical Surgical Skills (OSS) are vital career paths that strengthen access to surgical and maternity care in rural and remote communities across Canada. These programs train family physicians to provide essential surgical and obstetrical services, helping ensure patients can receive timely, high-quality care close to home.
ESS and OSS physicians typically practise in small to mid-sized rural communities where access to specialist services is limited. These roles are especially well suited to physicians who have a clear intention to practise in a specific community and who are confident they will be able to obtain hospital privileges upon completion of training.
To highlight the importance of this work and inspire the next generation of rural physicians, we’ve created a short promotional video showcasing the impact and scope of ESS and OSS practice. This project was made possible through SRPC funding and with the dedicated coordination of Dr. Mark Prins. We extend our sincere thanks to everyone who helped bring this initiative to life.
Enhanced Surgical Skills (ESS)
- University of Saskatchewan – Prince Albert, SK
Program Director: Dr. Andre Grobler
Contact email: To be confirmed - University of Alberta – Edmonton, AB
Program Director: Dr. Mark Prins (mprins@ualberta.ca)
Program Administrator: Allison Alberto (fmes@ualberta.ca)
Obstetrical Surgical Skills (OSS)
- Thunder Bay
- Winnipeg
- Surrey
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I apply straight out of my Family Medicine residency?
Yes. You may apply to the ESS or OSS program during your final year of Family Medicine residency. Applicants who are already in practice are also strongly encouraged to apply, particularly those seeking to expand their scope of practice to meet the needs of their communities.
How can I strengthen my application?
Rural experience during training is highly valued. Strong applications typically include reference letters from ESS or OSS physicians who have worked directly with the applicant. Letters from a general surgeon and an obstetrician commenting on suitability for surgical training are also beneficial.
Completing an elective at a recognized training site can further strengthen an application. Applicants are welcome to submit more than the minimum required number of reference letters to provide a clear picture of their experience and readiness.
Can I apply if I have already completed a different R3 year?
Yes, you may apply. However, Postgraduate Medical Education (PGME) offices generally discourage completing consecutive R3 programs.
What does the job market look like for ESS and OSS physicians?
There is strong demand for ESS and OSS physicians across Canada, particularly in rural and remote communities outside major urban centres. Locum opportunities are also common, and provincial or regional organizations frequently circulate workforce updates.
