New family physician now practising in High Prairie

HIGH PRAIRIE – Local residents have increased access to primary care with the arrival of a new family physician now practising in the community.

Dr. Gleam Singh Gill is a family medicine physician working out of the High Prairie Community Health and Wellness Clinic.

“It’s a pleasure to welcome Dr. Gill to the community,” says Dr. John Loge, Associate Zone Medical Director for Alberta Health Services (AHS). “He’s a great addition to our local care team and his skills are a valuable asset to local residents.”

Dr. Gill becomes the sixth family physician practising in town. He comes to High Prairie from India, where he received his medical training and completed his medical residency. He was recruited through the ongoing efforts of AHS and its community partners.

"This is great news for High Prairie and for the surrounding communities," says Danielle Larivee, Minister of Children's Services and Status of Women and MLA for Lesser Slave Lake. "I look forward to seeing how Dr. Gill's experience and contributions will improve primary care in our region, and I am proud that our government is ensuring physicians are here for people in our community when they need them."

Set to be married in the next few months, Dr. Gill is a self-professed “foodie” who also enjoys a healthy, active lifestyle.

“I am trying to develop a circle of friends with whom I can explore this community, as well as learn outdoor activities like quadding and horseback riding,” he says. “My girlfriend and I are looking forward to exploring more of the Canadian countryside.”

Dr. Gill says he feels fortunate to have the opportunity to practise in High Prairie.

“I look forward to becoming an active member of the community,” he says.

AHS continues to recruit for family physicians across northern Alberta to meet community needs. AHS has physician resource planners who are dedicated to identifying and pursuing international and domestic physician recruitment opportunities. They work closely with various community partners and organizations, such as local Health Advisory Councils, the Rural Health Professions Action Plan, and independent physician recruitment and retention committees.

Alberta Health Services is the provincial health authority responsible for planning and delivering health supports and services for more than four million adults and children living in Alberta. Its mission is to provide a patient-focused, quality health system that is accessible and sustainable for all Albertans.