May 7, 2021
McLENNAN / FALHER — A new family physician is now practising in McLennan and Falher, improving access to primary for local residents.
Dr. Lynn Hanekom, who arrived last month, is providing care out of the Falher Medical Clinic and Sacred Heart Community Health Centre. She received her medical training at Stellenbosch University and medical residency at Kimberly Hospital, both in South Africa.
“The arrival of Dr. Hanekom is good news for the residents of McLennan and Falher area, who now have another family physician to help them meet their healthcare needs,” says Todd Loewen, MLA for Central Peace Notley. “I am committed to continue to work with the Government of Alberta to recruit more physicians for our communities in rural Alberta.”
Dr. Frank Akwa, Associate Zone Medical Director for McLennan and Falher in AHS North Zone, says Dr. Hanekom will be a welcome addition to both communities.
“We are excited to welcome Dr. Hanekom and her husband to McLennan. Family medicine physicians are an important part of a person’s healthcare team as they are often a patient’s first point of contact. She’s a great addition to our local care team and her skills are a valuable asset to residents,” he says.
Dr. Hanekom and her husband have two “fur babies”: Coco, a Boston terrier, and Roiboos, a Rhodesian ridgeback. Together they enjoy early morning runs and afternoon walks. Dr. Hanekom also enjoys reading, cooking and exploring the outdoors.
“We are looking forward to becoming involved in community projects,” says Dr. Hanekom. “I am excited to assist improving the community’s health and wellness. I am passionate about what I do and love to help others.”
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 attraction and retention committees.
Having a new doctor could not have come at a more opportune time, says Myrna Lanctot,
co-ordinator for Smoky River Region Physician Recruitment and Retention.
“It brings me great pleasure to welcome Dr. Lynn Hanekom and her husband to the Smoky River area,” she says. “Dr. Hanekom opened her office in Falher, which allows the community to access her skills through clinical appointments. Dr. Hanekom’s work will also support our McLennan hospital on-call needs.”
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.
