Former Ukrainian doctor now works as a welder in B.C

Alex Martsiv, a former family doctor from Ukraine, now works as a welder in Abbotsford, B.C. He fled Ukraine with his family due to the war and faced challenges in getting his medical credentials recognized in Canada. It took 18 months to verify his qualifications, and he still needs to pass exams costing up to $6,000. Meanwhile, the B.C. government has made efforts to recruit more doctors, with a new pay model attracting 835 physicians since 2023. Conservative MLA Bruce Bannerman highlighted Martsiv's situation in the legislature, urging quicker support for qualified professionals. Premier David Eby expressed willingness to help Martsiv return to practicing medicine in B.C.