A number of initiatives are happening this year to draw physicians to the area.
Following a report from city Fire Chief Phil Eagleson last year which says Owen Sound is going to need about a dozen new family doctors within the next three years, several events are planned for this year to bring in new physicians to the community.
Eagleson presented an updated report to a Corporate Services Committee meeting on May 9, which highlighted the recruitment activities as well as outlined the Grey Bruce Owen Sound Physician Recruitment and Retention Taskforce’s strategy.
“It’s a really wonderful spot to work and we want to bring physicians here anyway we can and the city is very supportive of that,” says Eagleson.
The events to attract physicians to keep up with the number of retiring physicians include:
-Rural Medicine Week, a one-week elective for pre-clerk Ontario University medical students during their summer break to province them with the opportunity to get hands-on clinical experience and showcase the host community.
-Discovery Healthcare Summer Camp, a learning opportunity for high school students who are interested in pursuing careers in medicine, nursing, dentistry, paramedics, kinesiology, or other healthcare professions.
-Rural Medicine Retreat, an opportunity for residents and physicians interested in the area to come and enjoy a fun weekend in the region.
-The Grey Bruce/Owen Sound Physician Recruitment and Retention Workshop, develop a sustainable governance model for regional recruitment.
The city says three new postgraduate year one Family Medicine Residents will be starting in Owen Sound in July.
“Historically, the Owen Sound Family Health team has had remarkable success in encouraging residents to join their team after completing the residency placements,” says the city. “This recruitment approach has proven successful, but it takes time to reap the rewards. City staff continue to work with Brightshores Health System, the Owen Sound Family Health Team, and other partners to attract family physicians to Owen Sound.”