UofS probation

[Guest 2l2l]

U of S probation:

www.cbc.ca/stories/2002/1...hool021227

 

Can anyone explain the current probation status at U of S? Do you think there will be credibility issues with U of S graduates because of the probation? I know we received that letter saying there's nothing to worry about, but what about from the perspective of current students?

[Guest kosmo14]

Current probation status is that we are on a two year probation due to some inadequacies particularly having to do with funding. A few of the concerns raised were: not enough faculty (currently being addressed), library sucks (Reno's and acquisitions have begun), integration of Regina teaching site (already addressed), lack of supervision for JURSI's (unfortunate some people had to open their mouth as they lost some responsibilities, but has been addressed), way too much class time and not enough independent learning (already addressed with full revamp of curriculum), lack of applications and enrollment from aboriginals (work still being done in this area).

 

These were the big areas that were identified. There has been a huge financial commitment from the government of Sask. over the next 4-5 years. This is what was needed. It was said time and again that we were chronically underfunded, and it always takes something drastic in order for the government to act. All in all it was probably a good thing that happened to the College as it forced people to re-examine the entire program and make changes. Many times people/places get stagnant if there is not something to shake things up. This should keep the province and the College of Medicine on their toes for many years to come.

 

One other point to make is that we invited the accreditation committee back to the U of S an entire year early as there has been some great progress made. They visited us in January and their exit interviews showed that they were quite pleased with the progress and changes. We will know by end of June about our probationary status. It is very possible that they will lift the probation then, giving us once again full accreditation, and the added benefit of some significant positive changes.

 

As far as how current graduates are being viewed across the country I think our CaRMS record speaks for itself. We matched all but one this year, with positions being in all fields and all universities (IE/ neurosurg at UofT, Optho at UofA, Urology at Ottawa etc...). Our graduates are still held in high regard. One thing to remember is that in Canada it is not the school you graduate from it is the person who graduates that determines the quality of physician/resident.

 

Hope this helps.