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. Francois Mukuna is a family medicine physician working out of the High Prairie Health Complex. He becomes the eighth family physician practising in town.

“It’s a pleasure to welcome Dr. Mukuna to the community,” says Dr. John Loge, Associate Zone Medical Director for Alberta Health Services. “It’s important that High Prairie residents have timely access to family physicians, and Dr. Mukuna will be a valuable member of the local care team.”

Dr. Mukuna comes to High Prairie from the Democratic Republic of Congo and South Africa, where he completed his medical training and residency. With a focus on family medicine, he is also experienced in emergency medicine, anesthesia and low-risk obstetrics.

Dr. Mukuna, his wife, son and two daughters are getting settled in the community since arriving last month. He says the family enjoys spending time outdoors and is looking forward to exploring their new community.

“My children love swimming, so they will surely love the aquatic centre,” says Dr. Mukuna. “They are very curious and like exploring new things.”

He added his family is also looking forward to learning more about winter activities in the area, such as skiing, skating, hockey and ice fishing.

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.