The Big Wait

The doctor shortage is getting critical and one Canadian town is desperately trying to recruit physicians. At the same time, three internationally trained doctors are trying to get licensed to practice medicine in their new country. This is the potent story documented in The Big Wait, a film produced by Joanne Jackson with Brilliant Red Media and OMNI Television.

The Big Wait takes viewers on an emotional journey with the three physicians, from Kenya, India and Nepal. The film tells a revealing story of the human cost of being an international medical doctor in North America.   While the doctors face unforeseen challenges trying to do what they were trained to do, the small town struggles to find doctors willing to set up a family practice in their community.   

The Big Wait features a journey of parallel storylines shot over four years. Will the small community find its doctors?  And, will the international doctors find a way to get into the system?   This story provides laughter and tears as well as educational insight into a complex issue.  It is a sensitive and powerful film that resonates in a changing medical landscape.

Co-Directors: Jari Osborne & Joanne Jackson

Director of Photography: Doug Raby

Winner: Houston Worldfest, Platinum Award, Medical Programs. Available on DVD.

Inquiries: longhaulbigheartsproductions@gmail.com

The Big Wait Trailer

Produced in 2010. Filmed on location in the USA and Canada. Produced in association with OMNI Television, Brilliant Red Media and Long Haul Big Hearts Productions.