Stettler Town council has approved updates to its physician recruitment and retention policy, aimed at clarifying compensation for doctors and adding new incentives.
The original policy was introduced in July 2024 as an extraordinary measure, with both the Town and County of Stettler seeking ways to attract and retain physicians in the community.
Under the joint agreement, new doctors may receive between $50,000 and $70,000 in financial incentives, depending on their qualifications.
Each municipality is responsible for contributing between $25,000 and $35,000 per physician, for up to seven physicians under the jointly administered policy.
Doctors who remain in the community for five years are entitled to the full amount. Those who leave before two years must repay the entire sum, while a prorated amount is required if they depart between two and five years.
The latest policy update aims to clarify the process for topping up compensation for physicians who received partial payments between 2022 and 2024, prior to the implementation of the policy.
As part of the update, Stettler Town council also approved the inclusion of a one-year family pass to the Stettler Recreation Centre for new physicians.
Author: Landin Chambers
Landin Chambers is a news reporter for Hometown Media Stettler. He has a background in broadcast news, with previous roles in Prince George, Red Deer and Calgary. You may also see him as a cameraman for the Stettler Wildcats and Stettler Imperials. Have a story idea? Email: lchambers@htproductionsmedia.ca
