Tips to Prepare for the MMI at UBC Medical School

Preparing and then truly succeeding in the Multiple Mini Interview (MMI) at the University of British Columbia (UBC) requires more than general interview skills; it demands a deep understanding of the province's unique healthcare landscape, current events, social issues, and local health challenges.

By incorporating this knowledge into your responses, you can demonstrate your commitment to the community and your readiness to contribute meaningfully as a future physician.

The tips and policy guidelines below should give you a base of knowledge to start to think about how you can go that extra mile in your response. Everyone's going to have a good response, however, you need to ensure your response is GREAT not just good. A good example would be where you can state "this {answer} relates to {X policy} that was implemented just {Y} months ago, I thought this was an interesting initiative in the province of British Columbia - although it would have been nice to see them do {your suggestions on the policy}"

Be genuinely informed, have opinions backed by evidence and research which you can express in an articulate manner, there is no right or wrong answer, although there is always an opportunity to demonstrate extraordinary deliberation.

Here's a comprehensive guide to help you excel:

1. Grasp British Columbia's Unique Healthcare Policies

Universal Pharmacare Initiatives: BC is a leader in advocating for a national universal pharmacare program. The province's Fair PharmaCare Plan reduces the financial burden of prescription medications based on family income, promoting equitable access.

Primary Care Networks (PCNs): BC is implementing PCNs to provide team-based, integrated primary care. These networks aim to improve access by connecting patients with a team of healthcare professionals, including physicians, nurse practitioners, and allied health providers.

Medical Services Plan (MSP) Enhancements: Recent reforms have eliminated MSP premiums, reflecting BC's commitment to reducing barriers to healthcare access.

Tip: Discuss how these policies impact patient care and the physician's role in advocating for equitable healthcare. Reflect on experiences that show your commitment to accessibility and teamwork in healthcare delivery.

2. Stay Informed on Current Healthcare Events

Opioid Crisis: BC continues to face a severe opioid overdose epidemic, exacerbated by potent synthetic opioids like fentanyl. The province has declared a public health emergency and implemented harm reduction strategies, including supervised consumption sites and widespread naloxone distribution.

COVID-19 Response: BC's approach to the pandemic, with effective public health measures and vaccination campaigns, offers insights into crisis management and community health.

Mental Health Initiatives: Increased funding for mental health services, particularly for youth and marginalized communities, highlights a focus on mental wellness and accessible care.

Tip: Be prepared to discuss how these events have shaped your understanding of public health, harm reduction, and the importance of accessible mental health services. Share thoughts on how physicians can contribute to solutions.

3. Engage with Relevant Social Issues

Housing Affordability and Homelessness: Urban centers like Vancouver face significant housing challenges, leading to increased homelessness and associated health issues.

Climate Change and Environmental Health: BC has experienced severe wildfires, floods, and heatwaves, affecting air quality and public health. Understanding the health implications of climate change is crucial.

Substance Use and Mental Health Intersection: The interplay between mental health disorders and substance use is a pressing concern in BC.

Tip: Reflect on the physician's role in addressing social determinants of health. Discuss how you can advocate for vulnerable populations and contribute to community health initiatives.

4. Delve into Indigenous Health Topics

Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) Calls to Action: The TRC emphasizes the need for cultural safety and competency in healthcare. Calls to Action 18-24 specifically address health and urge medical professionals to recognize and address the unique health needs of Indigenous peoples.

In Plain Sight Report: This report uncovers systemic racism and discrimination against Indigenous peoples in BC's healthcare system. Familiarize yourself with its findings and recommendations for promoting equity and cultural safety.

First Nations Health Authority (FNHA): BC is unique in having the FNHA, the first province-wide health authority of its kind in Canada, responsible for planning and delivering health services to First Nations communities.

Tip: Demonstrate a commitment to cultural humility and reconciliation. Discuss how you plan to incorporate these principles into your medical practice, and share experiences that highlight your dedication to improving Indigenous health outcomes.

5. Align with UBC Medical School's Values

Distributed Medical Program: UBC delivers its medical program across four regional sites to address healthcare needs throughout the province, particularly in rural and remote areas.

Emphasis on Rural and Remote Medicine: UBC prioritizes training physicians who will serve in underserved communities. Express your interest or experience in rural healthcare settings.

Research Excellence: UBC is a leading institution in medical research, especially in areas like population health, genomics, and Indigenous health.

Tip: Highlight experiences that align with UBC's mission, such as volunteer work in rural communities, participation in relevant research projects, or initiatives that demonstrate leadership and a commitment to service.

6. Hone Your MMI Skills with Local Context

Ethical Scenarios: Be prepared for questions involving ethical dilemmas specific to BC, such as resource allocation during health crises or addressing systemic inequities in healthcare.

Communication Stations: Practice delivering difficult news or discussing sensitive topics with patients from diverse backgrounds, incorporating principles of cultural safety and humility.

Collaborative Tasks: Demonstrate your ability to work effectively in a team, reflecting the collaborative nature of healthcare in BC's integrated care models.

Tip: Use examples from BC's healthcare context to inform your responses. Show that you can apply ethical principles thoughtfully and communicate with empathy and clarity.

7. Be Prepared to Discuss National Healthcare Debates

Medicare Sustainability: Understand challenges facing Canada's universal healthcare system, such as funding pressures and wait times, and how they impact provincial healthcare delivery.

National Pharmacare: Discuss the implications of implementing a national pharmacare program, building on BC's advocacy and existing pharmacare initiatives.

Medical Assistance in Dying (MAiD): Be familiar with Canada's legislation on MAiD and recent expansions, considering ethical, legal, and social perspectives.

Tip: Articulate informed viewpoints that consider both national policies and provincial implications. Show critical thinking and awareness of the broader healthcare landscape.

8. Reflect on Personal Experiences and Learning

Volunteer Work: Share involvement with organizations addressing health issues in BC, such as working with homeless populations, mental health support groups, or Indigenous communities.

Research and Innovation: Discuss participation in research projects that tackle local health challenges or contribute to medical advancements relevant to BC.

Adaptability and Resilience: Illustrate how you've navigated challenges, demonstrating qualities like resilience and adaptability, which are essential in medicine.

Tip: Ensure your examples are authentic and convey your commitment to making a positive impact in BC's healthcare system.