ST. PAUL – A newly recruited general surgeon is now working out of the St. Therese – St. Paul Healthcare Centre and the Independent Medical Practitioners Clinic.
Dr. Lakshmi Balakrishnan moved to St. Paul earlier this year from her home province of Saskatchewan. She attended the University of Saskatchewan in Saskatoon where she earned her medical degree with a residency in general surgery. She also completed a masters degree of science in community health and epidemiology. Dr. Balakrishnan’s expertise includes breast surgical oncology.
“On behalf of the Government of Alberta and residents of St. Paul and area, I’d like to offer a warm welcome to Dr. Balakrishnan and family,” says David Hanson, MLA for Bonnyville-Cold Lake-St. Paul. “Her skills will be a great addition to the medical team in St. Paul, helping to increase access to healthcare in the community.”
“St. Paul is a wonderful community and we’re very glad to be welcoming a new surgeon to our local team of healthcare professionals,” adds Dr. Albert Harmse, Acting Zone Medical Director, North Zone. “Dr. Balakrishnan’s skill and expertise will improve local access to healthcare services for St. Paul and area residents.”
When not working, Dr. Balakrishnan says she enjoys golfing, swimming, reading and being outdoors with family. Her spouse is a pilot and the couple has a two-year-old son.
“I’m excited to meet my new patients and their families, and get outside to see what St. Paul and area have to offer,” says Dr. Balakrishnan.
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.
