DAWSON CREEK -- The fate of the Eljen Medical Clinic in Dawson Creek has been a topic of concern for residents, and now, Northern Health is confirming there will be doctors leaving the practice.
In an April 19th Facebook post, the health authority said that they are actively working with the South Peace Division of Family Practice to address a potential staffing shortage.
“While we know several physicians are planning departures for a variety of reasons, there are also many new physicians joining our community soon,” said Northern Health.
Northern Health says that a new family physician, a psychiatrist, and an OB/GYN have already begun working or will begin work in the region in the coming weeks.
An internal medicine physician is also set to begin in May, and two more family physicians are anticipated to start in September.
“There are currently two nurse practitioners (NP) working in Dawson Creek, and one of the NPs is providing surgical assist to support surgeries in the community,” said Northern Health.
In March, a letter began circulating on social media announcing the potential closure of the Eljen Clinic that would have left nearly 4,000 residents without a family doctor.
The South Peace Division of Family Care presented plans during a PRRD board meeting announcing that they were actively seeking a buyer to expand the clinic into a primary care network.
Mike Bernier says that while six doctors are leaving, the five replacements are prepared to take on new patients.
The MLA for Peace River South added that the region is currently in a healthcare crisis.
“Although some health professionals chose to leave, we need to keep advocating for training more local people, and more policies need to be made to support rural BC,” said Bernier.
Dawson Creek Mayor Darcy Dober has also reassured the community, telling CJDC-TV last month that the city will do whatever is necessary to support healthcare initiatives.
