People throughout the province are one step closer to strengthened community and primary care access, as the new Simon Fraser University (SFU) Stephens Family School of Medicine welcomes its first cohort of future doctors.

“Like many places, B.C. is facing a shortage of doctors. But our plan is making a difference – connecting thousands of people to a family doctor or nurse practitioner every week and helping B.C. lead the country in doctors per person,” said Premier David Eby. “The long-term solution is to train more doctors here at home. The students starting at the SFU Stephens Family School of Medicine today will care for families through some of life's happiest and hardest moments. We need to keep building on the progress we’re making to ensure care is there for you when and where you need it." 

On Wednesday, Aug. 5, the cohort of 48 medical students have their first day of orientation in the school of medicine’s interim learning space.

A curriculum for community

The new students will complete a curriculum designed to advance primary care and train doctors to provide team-based, person-centred care to serve diverse communities throughout B.C.

The three-year program will deliver a comprehensive medical education through a year-round curriculum, including summer studies. Students will graduate one year quicker than many other medical schools so they can deliver care sooner.

Students will graduate with a doctor of medicine degree, and start their residencies as early as 2029. While the focus of the curriculum is community and primary care, students will be well equipped to pursue residencies across the full range of specializations.

“We’re taking action to train more doctors right here at home, so British Columbians can get the care they need, when and where they need it,” said Jessie Sunner, Minister of Post-Secondary Education and Future Skills. “I want to congratulate the inaugural class of medical students as they begin their journey to becoming doctors. SFU Stephens Family School of Medicine, and the students committed to receiving their medical education and serving the community, will strengthen the entire health-care system, improving access to primary care throughout B.C.”

While 48 medical students make up the inaugural 2026 class, the student cohorts will increase in phases, reaching a steady state of 120 students a year by 2035.