Physician Leadership Scholarship Program (PLSP) Initiative Pause for FY2024/25 - FAQ

Why have you paused the applications for the PLSP?: In the last year, interest in the Physician Leadership Scholarship Program has grown enormously. As a result, the program has already committed its allocated funding for the 2024/25 fiscal year.
Why wasn't more money directed to the PLSP?: The Specialist Services Committee and Shared Care Committee increased the 2024/25 budget by 24%. Even with this increase, the demand is simply outpacing what we can fund.
How do you know that the PLSP will be overbudget in the 2024/25 fiscal year?: Based on the number of applications already received from physicians as of July 2024 and the estimated cost associated with the approved applications, the Scholarship has reached its budget allocation for this fiscal year. We conducted a thorough analysis of the first four month’s of FY2024/25 reimbursement to physicians, and forecasting through the rest of the fiscal year, estimated that we would be overbudget from between 20% to 45% if we continued to accept applications.
When will the pause end?: It is anticipated that the PLSP will return for the 2025/2026 fiscal year, which begins on April 1, 2025. The Physician Advisory Group, as well as the SSC and SCC will be using the remainder of this year to reflect upon and re-establish the priorities for leadership development and assessing their overall budgets. Timing as to when applications will once again be accepted will be determined over the next few months. Please check back to either the SSC or SCC websites for updates.
Is the PLSP a negotiated benefit through the PMA?: No, it is not. The funding for the PLSP has always come from the SSC and SCC committees due to their commitment to support the development of highly skilled physician leaders. The SSC and SCC have fixed budgets and must balance funding across various initiatives and programs to support physicians.
Will there be changes to the PLSP going forward?: It is likely that there will be some changes. The challenge is managing the increasing demand with finite budgets.
Can I request funding after the pause date of August 12 if other physicians have already been approved for?: Applications received prior to 5:00pm PST on August 12 will be evaluated for funding. After August 12, all new funding requests are on hold even if other physicians received approval prior to the pause.
Can I still take a course/conference this fiscal year and retroactively apply for funding support next fiscal year when the PLSP intake reopens?: No, the PLSP policy states that retroactive applications are not eligible for approval. Applications must be received at least two weeks prior to the course/conference start date.
What does this mean if I received an approval notification prior to August 12?: Applications reviewed, evaluated and approved before the intake closure at 5:00pm PST on August 12, 2024, will be honored, and reimbursement will be provided as per the usual process.
Does this affect all types of funding applications e.g. courses, conferences, coaching programs, masters, Closer to Home?: Yes, the pause affects all types of funding applications under the PLSP. Any previously approved programs will be honored but no new applications will be considered for the 2024/25 fiscal.
I applied before August 12, will my application be processed and when will I hear back?: Applications submitted before August 12, 2024, will be processed as per the standard procedure. You will be notified of the outcome accordingly.
Are there other funding sources available for physician leadership development through Doctors of BC?: All physicians that have direct deposit automatically receive an annual CME payment. It is at your discretion how to use these CME dollars. For more information visit this website.
Will I be reimbursed for expenses incurred before the pause was announced?: Yes, expenses for approved applications incurred before the announcement of the pause will be reimbursed if they meet the program's guidelines.
How can I stay updated on any changes or updates to the PLSP?: Regular updates will be provided through official communication channels, such as the Physician Leadership Scholarship Program webpage for Specialist Services Committee and Shared Care Committee.
Can I appeal the decision if my application was not processed before the pause?: Unfortunately, no appeals will be accepted during the pause. However, you may reapply in the next fiscal year.