A career in Global Health requires flexibility and creativity. This program prepares you for a career in this field by combining training in clinical domains, along with an introduction to systemic issues and global health partnerships.
The resident will take an active role in designing their program in consultation with the Program Director, as there is no present schedule for the year. There are opportunities for longitudinal experiences through research, clinical, public health and mentorship, as well as participating in block-style rotations. Residents may also choose to include certified or structured courses as a portion of their program (up to a maximum of one block equivalent), though clinical exposure and experience remain the foundation of the year. Elective rotations, either overseas or with a vulnerable population within Canada, will allow residents to consolidate clinical skills while aiding in understanding issues related to the provision of health in remote and/or under-resourced settings and are highly encouraged. A scholarly project will also be completed and will be discussed with the Program Director leading up to the start of the year. Finally, you will maintain a connection to Family Medicine through a clinical half-day back.
Below you will find examples of block-style rotations, longitudinal experiences, practicum placements and courses that are available through the Global Health program. This is just a starting point, and the Program Director will support you in seeking out training that meets your objectives.
Rotations and Longitudinal Experiences in Ottawa
- HIV Primary Care;
- Infectious Disease clinics (include tuberculosis, hepatitis B and C, tropical medicine and pediatric and adult HIV clinics);
- Inner City Medicine and Homeless Health;
- Mental Health Care and Addictions;
- New Canadians and Refugee Health Care;
- Public Health;
- City-Wide Global Health Journal Club;
- Teaching opportunities for PGY 1/2 +/- undergraduate medical students;
- Resident representative on Global Health Committee, Department of Family Medicine; and,
- Half day back in a Family Medicine setting.
Residents are encouraged to seek out a primary care clinic or program in Ottawa that primarily serves a vulnerable or marginalized population. They will attend this clinic for one half-day per week during all blocks in Ottawa.
Global Health Courses
Below are some Global Health courses that some residents have explored as part of their PGY3 year. Certificate or formal coursework can account for up to one block of the PGY3 year, as it is primarily oriented toward clinical exposure and experience.
Scholarly Project
During the program you will contribute to the growing body of Global Health scholarly work. You may choose to answer a clinical question or complete a literature review. You may also undertake an educational, advocacy, needs assessment or program development project related to the community you will be spending your practicum with.
The uOttawa Centre for Global Health can provide mentorship with this portion of your program, and you may even wish to align your research interests with their ongoing research. There are also educational initiatives in Global Health based at the Bruyère Family Medicine Centre and Montfort Hospital you can connect with.
We will encourage our residents to publish their work or present at a Global Health Conference.
