August 11, 2014
HIGH LEVEL — Local residents have improved access to primary care with the recruitment of a new full-time physician practising in the community.
Dr. Jennifer Parker is a general practitioner who started practising at the Northwest Health Centre at the beginning of the summer.
“High Level has conducted exemplary work to recruit new physicians, especially over the past year,” says Frank Oberle, Minister of Aboriginal Relations and MLA for Peace River. “Welcoming another new family physician is great news for the community.”
Dr. Parker’s arrival comes shortly after Dr. Willem Skein and Dr. Paul Jordaan arrived in the community.
“We not only work to recruit physicians, but to retain them as well,” says Michael Osborn, Chair of the True North Health Advisory Council. “It truly is a community effort and we are thankful for the support of Government, Alberta Health Services, local organizations and other residents for the role they play in supporting local health care.”
In Alberta Health Services (AHS) North Zone, three physician resource planners 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 Physician Action Plan and independent physician recruitment and retention committees.
These resource planners also work closely with local physicians who help support recruitment efforts, including Dr. Heinrich Brussow, Associate Zone Medical Director, and other local physicians from High Level and area.
“We are very fortunate to have Jennifer join our medial family here in High Level. Dr Parker’s focused interests in aboriginal health, women’s health and remote healthcare delivery significantly advance the healthcare services we offer our community,” says Dr. Brussow.
Dr. Parker hails from the Moberly Lake/Fort Nelson area in B.C. She received her medical training in Prince George and completed her medical residency in Fort St. John. In her spare time, she enjoys being outside, gardening, fishing, hunting and family activities with her husband and son.
“I love the small town life; knowing my neighbours and making friends,” says Dr. Parker.
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.
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