The need for healthcare in the community continues to be top of mind for the Stettler Regional Board of Trade.
Executive Director Byron Geddes provided an update to the board during their Feb. 10 meeting on their efforts to attract health care professionals to the community.
The Board of Trade recently shared news that five doctors are accepting patients in Stettler.
The new doctors include:
Dr. Ude – Stettler Medical Clinic – 403-742-3441
Dr. Lawal – Stettler Medical Clinic – 403-742-3441
Dr. Kankam-Yeboah – Heartland Medical Clinic – 403-742-4011
Dr. Asuke – Heartland Medical Clinic – 403-742-4011
Dr. Onwuzurike – Heartland Medical Clinic – 403-742-4011
The community-led “Stettler Needs Doctors” initiative led to both the Town of Stettler & County of Stettler providing financial incentives to attract doctors to the area.
The board heard that Dr. Godwin Agbonkhese, an anesthesiologist who recently relocated from Calgary, will also be practicing at the Heartland Medical Clinic.
Recruitment efforts are ongoing, with the community still seeking one additional GPA.
Temporary Hospital Bed Closures
Despite progress on physician recruitment, some challenges remain.
The board heard that four hospital beds have been temporarily closed at the Stettler Hospital 7 care Centre due to a shortage of nursing staff.
There is hope the situation will improve this spring with incoming practicum students & new graduates.
Physician Appreciation Event
As part of retention efforts, newly recruited physicians and their families were invited to a skybox suite during a recent Stettler Imperials game.
Organizers described the event as well received, with another welcome event planned for the summer.
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
