International Pharmacy Graduates( IPG) Bridging Program
The goal of the International Pharmacy Graduates (IPG) Bridging Program is to facilitate the integration of internationally educated pharmacists into the Canadian pharmacy workforce. The program is coordinated by the Metropolitan Immigrant Settlement Association (MISA) and the Halifax Immigrant Learning Centre (HILC) in collaboration with the Registered Nurses Professional Development Centre (RNPDC). It is endorsed by the Pharmacy Association of Nova Scotia (PANS) and the Nova Scotia College of Pharmacists (NSCP). The IPG Program consists of the following components:
- Employment Counselling – for initial assessment; development of a customized action plan; ongoing coaching; employment referral
- Outline the “Pathway to Licensure” and provide IPG information package
- Application for “IPG Supporting Membership status” with the Pharmacy Association of Nova Scotia (PANS)
- English for Internationally Educated Healthcare Professionals course
- Orientation to the Canadian Healthcare System for Internationally Educated Healthcare Professionals (RNPDC)
- Communications Skills Lab – for exam preparation
- Books and other resources available; study groups may be organized
- IPG On-site Program – a workplace based observational experience
- Professional Mentor Program
- English in the Workplace Program
Funding for this bridging program is provided by Health Canada, Nova Scotia Office of Immigration, Nova Scotia Department of Education and Citizenship and Immigration Canada.
In-kind support is provided by the Pharmacy Association of Nova Scotia and many Canadian- licensed pharmacists currently living and working in Nova Scotia.