The Perth and Smiths Falls District Hospital says it has had its strongest year for physician recruitment in a decade, with eight doctors joining its ranks.
The hospital says it has recruited a new hospitalist, emergency physician, full-time radiologist, four anesthetists, a surgical assist and a psychiatrist.
Physician Recruiter Carlene McDonald said it’s a much higher average than they’ve seen in the last decade.
McDonald didn’t mention why the interest has grown so rapidly, but mentioned the hospital has garnered additional exposure through the Eastern Regional Medical Education Program, which brought seven medical students to experience rural medicine.
They also recruited through a career day at the University of Ottawa.
McDonald says they’re still looking to fill several positions.
The hospital has seen a boost in physician recruitment, but a gap remains in family medicine, with eight vacancies at Cornelia Court and about 70 per cent of people going to the emergency department without a family doctor.
The hospital is also receiving an average of six inquiries a month from physicians, medical students and others interested in electives, locum work or permanent positions.
Officials say recruitment remains an ongoing need despite this year’s gains.
