December 18, 2024
BONNYVILLE — A newly recruited family physician is now practising in the community, improving access to primary care for local and area residents.
Dr. Albert Harmse is a family medicine physician who is now practising at the Bonnyville Healthcare Centre and Bonnyville Medical Clinic. He is supporting the local emergency department, inpatient and outpatient services, and long-term care, as well as supporting the community clinic.
Born in South Africa, Dr. Harmse moved to Canada in 2001 and grew up in St. Paul. He received his education in Canada, the U.S. and the Caribbean, and moved back to Alberta in July, laying down roots in Bonnyville.
“It is great news to welcome Dr. Harmse back to Alberta,” says Scott Cyr, MLA for Bonnyville-Cold Lake-St. Paul. “It's truly wonderful to see him return to this province, and especially to our area of it. We are fortunate to have him and are excited for the contributions he will make.”
Dr. Jane Ojedokun, Zone Medical Director for Alberta Health Services (AHS), says Dr. Harmse is a welcome addition to the local medical team. “Dr. Harmse will not only help improve access to healthcare for local residents but will also improve their overall quality of life,” says Dr. Ojudokun. “His arrival will also provide support to the local medical team. It’s a pleasure to welcome him to our team, and to Bonnyville.”
Dr. Harmse and his wife have two children, ages five and four. Together as a family, he said they enjoy swimming and spending time outdoors.
Call the Bonnyville Medical Clinic at 780-826-3346 to learn more about his family medicine practise.
As part of an overall physician recruitment strategy, Alberta Health Services has three physician resource planners in the North Zone who are dedicated to identifying and pursuing international and domestic physician recruitment opportunities. These planners work closely with partner organizations, such as the Rural Health Professionals Action Plan, and local, independent community physician attraction 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. Our mission is to provide a patient-focused, quality health system that is accessible and sustainable for all Albertans. Our current focus is on reducing emergency department wait times, improving EMS response times, increasing access to surgeries, and improving patient flow.
