Northern Health says it’s working hard to address a doctor shortage in Terrace.
In an update to local stakeholders, the health authority says recent departures mean that Terrace will need to find 14 to 16 new family physicians.
As a stop-gap, Northern Health says it continues to bring in doctors on a part-time or interim (locum) basis to fill gaps in communities like Terrace that might not have enough physicians.
“We understand that we need more family doctors in Terrace and this is causing hardship for people, families and physicians in the community, said Andrea Palmer, Northern Health Regional Manager, Public Affairs & Media Relations in an email. “The Division of Primary Care Physicians and Northern Health are working closely together to recruit new family doctors to the community.”
Recruiting efforts have resulted in one new physician to work in the ER, and three Canadian-trained international medical graduates who will start in the summer.
Northern Health says it’s hopeful that an expanded funding model for emergency room coverage for family docs will also entice more physicians to the city.
The health authority says it is also aware of plans for two new physician clinics in the community in the coming months.
