Dr. Arleigh Trainor is set to return to her home province of Manitoba from the United States, citing family, career prospects, and the opportunity to work in Canada’s universal healthcare system as her primary reasons. The emergency physician, originally from Manitoba, acknowledged some “instability” after the change in U.S. government last November also influenced her decision. Trainor is looking forward to commencing her position in the emergency department in Brandon, Manitoba, starting in February 2026.
She is among six American doctors recently recruited by Manitoba health authorities as they intensify efforts to attract U.S. healthcare professionals amidst funding reductions and uncertainties linked to the administration of President Donald Trump. Trainor expressed her strong support for socialized medicine and emphasized Canada’s healthcare system as a place where patients receive excellent care without financial burden. She highlighted the focus on preventive care and ensuring access to treatment for vulnerable populations as key aspects she values.
Trainor also mentioned the appeal of investments in healthcare improvements, medical research, and education in Canada. She emphasized the importance of promoting the efforts made by the province to prioritize medicine, as all doctors are driven by the desire to assist people. Additionally, she believes that the stability of the Canadian healthcare system could attract other U.S. providers seeking a change, emphasizing the need for clear rules and regulations to facilitate patient care.
Dr. Ainslie Mihalchuk, the registrar and CEO of the College and Physicians and Surgeons of Manitoba, highlighted recent changes easing licensing requirements for U.S. doctors entering the province. The recognition of the comparable training standards between the U.S. and Canada has streamlined the licensing process for American physicians, eliminating the need for Canadian certification exams and supervision requirements.
In recent years, Manitoba has witnessed a notable increase in the recruitment of U.S. physicians, with 10 registered since Trump’s election and eight more applications in progress. The changing political climate in the U.S., particularly concerning women’s health, has been a contributing factor to this trend, according to Jeremy de Jong, the college’s director of registration.
Dr. Alison Carleton, a family physician in Winnipegosis, Manitoba, originally from Iowa, has been actively involved in recruiting other U.S. doctors to the province. She emphasized the importance of conveying the message that U.S. physicians are valued and needed in Manitoba to attract more professionals. Carleton emphasized the welcoming environment and the opportunity for a fulfilling career as key incentives for U.S. doctors considering a move to Canada.
Trainor expressed optimism about the increasing influx of nurses and physicians into Canada and highlighted the professional and personal benefits of her upcoming move to Brandon. She views the transition as a positive step, involving academic work alongside clinical practice, and looks forward to reuniting with friends and family in her home province.