Urban Stream
Resident Welcome
On behalf of the Family Medicine Residents' Association (FMRA) and all of the Family Medicine Residents at the University of Alberta, thank you for your interest in and support of our program.
The University of Alberta Family Medicine Residency Program offers a diverse clinical experience that can be tailored to suit your areas of interest. Our program offers training in settings such as the Inner City, academic centers, community clinics in the region, as well as a variety of more remote locations to provide you with a training site most similar to your anticipated future practice setting. Our robust program includes guaranteed exposure to acute care and prepares family doctors to work in any setting. Whether you want to do full-scope rural Family Medicine, or work in a team-based urban setting, you will find yourself prepared after completing your residency.
There are opportunities to customize your schedule and your rotations in order to achieve your personal learning objectives. That being said, each resident will be required to complete a selection of mandatory rotations in order to develop a solid clinical foundation. Academic training through clinical and didactic sessions is flexible and comprehensive. Some clinical rotations can be adapted into a longitudinal experience to create a more integrated experience, recognizing the diversity of Family Medicine. You can also engage with horizontal electives that allow you to gain a unique perspective on specialty clinics, with the goals of gaining an understanding of referral criteria and the multidisciplinary healthcare team approach. We are very fortunate to have the most supportive Program Director, Dr. Michelle Morros, who is very open and receptive to resident feedback and makes it a priority to improve the program.
Outside of the clinical setting, Family Medicine residents at the U of A are the best people. We always have the pleasure of welcoming residents from Edmonton, but also from the rest of the country. Through orientation activities, monthly social events, retreats, and other extracurricular activities, there are many opportunities to meet and enjoy time with colleagues.
Welcome to the U of A Family Medicine program!
Emily Ling and Levi Ansell
2023-24 FMRA Co-Leads
Program Highlights
Find Balance: Training at UofA FM is fun (wilderness medicine retreat, yearly resident retreat, resident social activities). Our program offers a dedicated Assistant Program Director for Resident Support to help our residents succeed.
Frequently Asked Questions
No, not all rotations are available at every site.
Resident Testimonials
We asked our residents what they like about Edmonton, their highlights of the program, and one piece of advice for applicants about the interview process. Here is what a few of them had to say.
What do you like about Edmonton?
Edmonton is a vibrant city to live in. After I moved here, I did not want to live anywhere else as I was able to settle in right away and find a good group of friends. I also love that there is a wide variety of activities and interests that my family and I can pursue.
The Family Medicine Program in Edmonton has been challenging and meaningful. I am fortunate to have been given opportunities to work with supportive, accomplished and engaged preceptors and staff.
What are the highlights of the program for you:
The ability to customize your training in a way that will be relevant to your envisioned practice. I love the flexibility of the program and the support I received in the pursuit of additional skills, exposure or training.
What is one piece of advice that you want to share with applicants about the interview process:
Interviews are meant to be an avenue for applicants to showcase their genuine self. Sincerity goes a long way! I also think it is important that there be some time dedicated to contemplating your goals and values prior to applying to make sure they align with what you are getting yourself into.
– Dr. Veron Pye (R2, Edmonton)
What do you like about Edmonton:
I love biking to my family medicine clinic, local ice cream parlors, and restaurants.
What are the highlights of the program for you:
The opportunities to focus on an area of clinical interest during your family medicine time through horizontals/integration or your preceptor having a tailored practice. Also how inclusive and supportive the program is.
What is one piece of advice that you want to share with applicants about the interview process:
Be yourself! Talk to residents about the program!
– Dr. Jessalyn Rohs (R1, Edmonton)
What do you like about Edmonton:
- I love the beauty of the Edmonton river valley, both in summer and winter!
- I am a big fan of Edmonton's food scene... so many amazing bakeries, independent coffee shops and innovative restaurants to satisfy my taste buds!
- I enjoy the proximity of the mountains! It's so easy to sneak in a weekend getaway for a little R&R!
What are the highlights of the program for you:
- I love the flexibility of our program! There are so many diverse clinical experiences to choose from that can be tailored to a particular area of interest.
- There is a good balance of acute care and community medicine! This has enabled me to feel comfortable and confident to work in any setting upon graduation.
- The people!! They make you feel at home even when you're miles away from home :)
What is one piece of advice that you want to share with applicants about the interview process:
There are many fantastic Family Medicine programs across the country. As important as it is to choose a program with a strong educational curriculum, don't neglect other key aspects! Residency is a challenging journey and you will want to place yourself in an environment where you can thrive. In addition to the strength of our program's academia, there is a great emphasis placed on resident wellbeing. I have always found myself supported by the fantastic faculty and staff that UofA boasts and am thankful for my decision to pursue residency here!
– Dr. Mahabba Smoka (R2, Edmonton)
What do you like about Edmonton:
Close relationship with the faculty advisor and team at the clinic. Very supportive program. Time to see, examine patients, and plenty of space to do procedures in clinic too!
What are the highlights of the program for you:
The team! Such an incredible program director and entire team so focused on your success and wellbeing.
What is one piece of advice that you want to share with applicants about the interview process:
Be yourself so you can find your new home for the next two years!