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The Health Professionals Attraction and Retention (HPA&R) Committee is making progress in addressing Stettler’s doctor shortage.
Two new doctors are now practising in Stettler, and three more have signed on and begun navigating the assessment process.
“We know attracting and retaining physicians is a challenge faced by many rural communities, but through collaboration and dedication, we are making meaningful progress. We are incredibly grateful to our existing healthcare professionals for their commitment to patient care and their support in these recruitment efforts,” said Dean Lovell, HPA&R Committee Chair. “Our community is a fantastic place to live and work, and we will continue working to ensure sustainable, high-quality healthcare for our residents."
The HPA&R committee is a collaborative initiative between the County of Stettler and the Town of Stettler and works to bring together stakeholders including, representatives from the Stettler Hospital and Care Centre, Stettler Medical Clinic, Heartland Medical Clinic, Alberta Health Services, and Stettler Needs Doctors.
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- Stettler group pushing need for local doctors
- Town and County of Stettler continuing physician recruitment efforts
With a clear mandate to recruit and retain physicians, the committee is working to establish a sustainable framework that not only addresses the current shortage but also ensures long-term healthcare stability for Stettler and our surrounding area.
Following the launch of a new joint Town-County physician incentive program in 2024, the HPA&R Committee has been actively implementing strategies to attract new doctors while supporting those already in the community.
Byron Geddes, HPA&R Committee Coordinator has been working to connect with doctors and touring them around the town and county highlighting recreational amenities, healthcare facilities, countryside, and way of life.
The committee is continuing to recruit doctors and advocating for accessible and reliable medical care for the community.
The HPA&R Committee expresses their appreciation to all healthcare workers and administration staff at the Stettler Hospital, Stettler Medical Clinic, and Heartland Medical Clinic, who have filled in service gaps throughout the shortage.
**With information provided by the HPA&R Committee
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