(rdnewsNOW file photo)

By rdnewsNOW Staff

$50,000-$70,000

Stettler area approves incentive program for physician recruitment

Jul 25, 2024 | 3:12 PM

Following the announcement of Joint Physician Attraction Incentives agreed upon by the County of Stettler and Town of Stettler, the municipalities have announced the approval of a new financial incentive structure.

“In light of the current shortage of doctors not only in our community, but countless other communities throughout our province and country, this incentive program will give us and our partners in the County of Stettler the competitive advantage we need to bring doctors to our area,” said Town of Stettler Mayor Sean Nolls. “Although the overarching goal is to address our general physician shortage, this incentive program highlights the particular need for permanent anesthesiologists, and puts a focus on obstetrics.”

Following formal approval at the July 10 County of Stettler council meeting and July 16 Town of Stettler council meeting, the following funding structure has been approved and is now in effect:

• General Practitioner – Anaesthetist, including child delivery: $70,000
• General Practitioner – Anaesthetist, not including child delivery: $60,000
• General Practitioner, offering child delivery: $55,000
• General Practitioner, not offering child delivery: $50,000

These incentive payments are only available to current and future recruits and will not be given retroactively. The payments are one-time only and if the agreement ends prior to the designated five year term, physicians will be required to return the payment at a pro-rated amount.

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“This new financial incentive structure marks a significant step forward in our joint efforts to address the current physician shortage crisis in our region. By collaborating with the Town of Stettler and with the invaluable support of MLA Nate Horner, we are making strides to attract and retain physicians in our community,” says County of Stettler Reeve Larry Clarke. “The severity of this issue demands immediate and proactive measures, and we believe this approved funding structure will enhance our recruitment efforts. Our goal is to ensure our citizens and rural Albertans receive access to the healthcare services we deserve. We are deeply grateful for the unwavering commitment of our current physicians and healthcare professionals who continue to serve our community with dedication during these very challenging times.”

The Town and County of Stettler thanks the current physicians in the area for their commitment and dedication in providing care despite service gaps and staff shortages.

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