City Council welcomes future physicians to Lethbridge
As the first class of Southern Alberta Medical Program (SAMP) students start their educational journey at the University of Lethbridge today, City Council has been excitedly readying the welcome wagon for their arrival.
“We are so excited to welcome these students to Lethbridge because it is an important moment for our city and our region,” said Mayor Blaine Hyggen. “We know building strong connections to the community from day one is crucial in the retention of learners, so we’re working to support that, however we can.”
Amongst the Council-directed initiatives and activities on offer to SAMP students are memberships to some of Lethbridge’s recreational and cultural facilities.
“Experiencing the art, culture and history of a city are fantastic and immersive ways of getting to know your new home,” says Sarah Newstead, Executive Director, Galt Museum and Archives. “There’s something for everyone and summer is a great time to get out and explore what Lethbridge has to offer.”
The Southern Alberta Medical Program is an innovative partnership between the University of Lethbridge and the University of Calgary’s Cumming School of Medicine, established with funding from the Government of Alberta. It is one of two Rural Medical Education Program training centres in Alberta and will allow students to earn a University of Calgary medical degree while completing their education in Lethbridge and rural communities across southern Alberta.
Students in the program will train alongside other healthcare professionals, gaining hands-on experience in community and rural settings. The program is designed to enrol learners who are more likely to practise in rural and regional communities after graduation. A proven approach to improving physician availability over the long term.
City Council’s Strategic Plan prioritizes purposeful partnerships, economic resilience and community wellbeing. Attracting and retaining healthcare professionals supports multiple strategic goals, including building a healthy and diverse city and strengthening Lethbridge’s role as a regional service and education centre.
“Students come to Lethbridge because of the quality post-secondary education they receive and the community that supports their learning,” says Hyggen. “We want them to stay here to build a life and use those skills and education in our community. Supporting and warmly welcoming students from day one is great way to start that journey.”