Expand the term for explanation:

CARMS (The Canadian Resident Matching Service)

Is an online platform that medical graduates use to apply for residency positions across Canada. It’s a critical step for medical graduates to advance their training in a specialized area of medicine.

Residency

Is the stage of medical training that happens after graduating from medical school. It involves practical, on-the-job training under supervision in a chosen specialty. For instance, a residency in family medicine in Canada typically lasts 2 years, while one in Obstetrics & Gynecology is around 5 years.

The Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada

Oversees the certification of specialists (except family physicians) in Canada. Certification from the Royal College is necessary to practice in most of Canada, with specific conditions applying in Quebec.

The College of Family Physicians of Canada (CFPC)

Sets the standards for training and certification in family medicine. It accredits training programs, conducts certification examinations, and grants the CCFP designation, signifying that a family physician has met the required standards and is committed to ongoing professional development.

The CCFP Certification

Is a mark of distinction for family physicians, indicating that they have completed approved training and have met the standards for family medicine expertise.