Leave of Absence

PGME Guiding Principle on Clinical Fellow Leave of Absence 

Purpose 

The University of Calgary recognizes that circumstances may arise requiring a clinical fellow to be absent from training for personal and/or professional reasons. In such cases, fellows may request a leave of absence (LOA) for a specified period. All requests will be handled respectfully and confidentially, prioritizing the well-being of the fellow. The LOA is policy applies to both AFC and non-AFC clinical fellowship programs. 

Please speak with your Program Director if you are requesting a LOA. If the leave is approved at the program level, they will complete the LOA form and submit it to PGME for final approval. 

Fellows are registrants of the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA) and have a professional responsibility to withdraw from patient care when impaired due to health issues, emotional disturbance, cognitive concerns, or substance addiction. Health practitioners must notify CPSA regarding any impairment that may pose a risk to patients or the public. 

  1. Eligible Circumstances

    The Fellowship Program Director may grant a leave of absence for: 

    • Maternity/Paternity/Adoption
    • Personal Leave
    • Medical (Sick) Leave
    • Other reasons at the discretion of the Program Director 
       

  2. Restrictions

    Leave of absence will not be granted for the purpose of earning income. 

  3. Compensation

    Leave may be unpaid. PGME’s minimum PGY-1 remuneration requirement can be prorated during the leave. 

  4. Notification Requirements

    • PGME must be notified of any leave greater than 4 weeks.
    • PGME will inform AHS Medical Affairs if the leave exceeds 30 consecutive days, as clinical access will be suspended after 30 days. 

  5. Extended Leave

    Requests for cumulative leave exceeding 8 weeks require PGME Fellowship Committee approval. 

  6. Tracking

    Fellowship programs must track all absences. 

  7. Impact on Completion Date and Tuition

    Approved leave will extend the fellowship completion date by the duration of the absence. If eligible, tuition will be adjusted if your leave is six months or more. Visit tuition and fees for more information.