Practice Ready Assessment BC (PRA-BC) Program: Positive Recruitment Experience Spurs New Advocate
The Practice Ready Assessment BC (PRA-BC) program helps Richmond clinics recruit experienced internationally trained physicians to meet patient care needs. With the support of the Richmond Division of Family Practice, clinics can navigate the rigorous application process and match with highly competent doctors who bring global expertise to local care.
Positive Recruitment Experience with PRA-BC in Richmond
When Dr. Sharon Dodd first heard about the Practice Ready Assessment-BC (PRA-BC) program, she wasnât sure it was the right fit for her clinic. âI was hesitant at first,â she admits. âI wanted to make sure an internationally trained Physician would provide a high standard of care to patients in our province, without having gone through a Canadian residency program.â
But with her clinic actively seeking new doctors, the Richmond Division of Family Practice stepped in to help. âThe recruitment team thought a PRA-BC Physician could be a good fit for my needs,â says Dr. Dodd. âThey helped with the application, provided candidate lists, arranged interviews, and facilitated the match. They were ready for me.â
Now a strong advocate for PRA-BC, Dr. Dodd is also serving as a Clinical Field Assessor for the program. Sheâs currently evaluating a Physician who arrived in Canada with 18 years of practice. âWithin the first week, I knew this Physician was very experienced and knew what he was doing,â she says. âPatients are even asking where this Physician will be practicing. They are enjoying his care, and there is such a great need.â
The PRA-BC program is rigorousâcandidates must have run their own family practice abroad for at least two years. âSo much of our expertise comes from experience,â Dr. Dodd explains. âThese Physicians exude confidence, both with patients and with the assessors.â
The candidate who matched to Dr. Doddâs clinic is currently completing her clinical field assessment elsewhere, and is expected to join the team in September. Dr. Dodd has already expressed interest in PRA-BC recruitment again. âItâs a tried and tested method,â she says. âMy experience has been extremely positive, well supported, and the program consistently selects Physicians who are highly competent and experienced.â
Programs like PRA-BCâpaired with strong operational support from the Richmond Divisionâare key to nurturing effective recruitment pathways, addressing community needs, and ensuring high-quality care for patients today and for years to come.
Supporting Clinics and Patients Through Experienced International Physicians
Dr. Sharon Doddâs clinic successfully integrated a PRA-BC physician, praising the programâs thorough candidate vetting, operational support, and emphasis on high-quality care. Programs like PRA-BC ensure clinics can address community needs while providing patients with confident, experienced physicians. Richmond Divisionâs recruitment support streamlines the process, making international physician integration seamless and effective.
Explore recruitment options for your Richmond clinic through the Practice Ready Assessment BC (PRA-BC) program or UBC return of service programs. Email recruitment@rdfp.ca to learn how your clinic can access highly skilled, internationally trained physicians.
A version of this article was originally published in Richmond Division of Family Practice Annual Impact Report 2025-25
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Building a Strong Mind: Richmond PCN Funded Mental Health Counselling was Ex-bodybuilderâs Power Move
With the support of her family doctor and the Richmond PCN, Wendy Kwok was able to access counselling services that helped her navigate a difficult period in her life. The Richmond Primary Care Network connects patients with a wide range of supports, ensuring care is accessible, personalized, and responsive to community needs.
Support from a Family Doctor and the Richmond Primary Care Network (PCN)
When Wendy Kwok returned to Richmond following a divorce, she found herself facing emotional challenges that affected her health and daily life. A former professional bodybuilder, she had always valued fitness and discipline, but this period brought new difficulties, including low mood, disrupted sleep, and changes to her usual routines.
Recognizing the need for additional care, Wendyâs family doctor referred her to the Richmond Primary Care Network (PCN), where she was able to access MSP-funded counselling sessions. âThat has been really helpful,â she explains, noting that private counselling would have been difficult to afford.
Mental Health Support in the Language Your are Comfortable In
Working with her counsellor, Wendy gradually found ways to restore balance and confidence. She learned the importance of setting boundaries and giving herself permission to prioritize her own wellbeing. With support in place, she has returned to some of her routines, including exercise and healthy eating, and is exploring new opportunities for the future.
Wendy hopes her story encourages others to consider reaching out for help when they need it. âI used to think nobody could help me, but thatâs not true,â she says. âEven if your English isnât perfect, the PCN has language options. The counselling has been very supportive.â
Wendyâs journey highlights how the Richmond PCN works hand in hand with family doctors to provide patients with essential mental health and wellness services. By making resources like counselling available, the PCN ensures that individuals and families in Richmond can access the care they need, when they need it.
The Richmond Primary Care Network (PCN) offers patients access to a range of supports, including counselling and wellness services, made possible through collaboration with local family physicians. These resources ensure that care is not only accessible, but also responsive to the needs of individuals and families in Richmond.
If you are interested in learning more about services available through the Richmond PCN, speak with your family physician. They can help connect you to the supports that best fit your needs.
A version of this article was originally published in Richmond Division of Family Practice Annual Impact Report 2025-25