Russell Township's Initiatives to Address Physician Shortage

In response to a request from Council, township administration took proactive steps to review options and propose solutions to the shortage of family doctors. These initiatives are a testament to the community's commitment to ensuring that residents have access to the medical care they need.

The Economic Development Department, in collaboration with Memory Tree, embarked on an innovative initiative to help address the pressing issue of physician shortages in the area. The joint effort aims to attract new healthcare professionals to our area by showcasing its healthcare facilities and the growing needs of the population through a compelling video presentation. To view the video, visit www.russell.ca/healthcare.

Another notable event in this effort was the participation at the Department of Family Medicine Job Fair at the University of Ottawa on October 27, 2023. This event brought together various communities, healthcare organizations, and aspiring medical professionals. It was a unique opportunity for recruiters to engage with first- and second-year residents as they plan their future medical practices. Mayor Pierre Leroux, Dr. De Banné and Dr. Lachance had the pleasure of connecting with aspiring medical professionals and showcase the opportunities awaiting them in our township.

Mayor Pierre Leroux and Dr. Danielle De Banné, a prominent figure in the local medical community, also hosted a Community Open House on Physician Shortages on October 30, 2023. The primary focus of this event was to foster a dialogue that could lead to the formation of a community committee dedicated to tackling the issue of physician shortages. The support of the community is crucial in addressing this pressing concern. The evening was a resounding success. The community came out ready to share ideas and get involved and with over 40 people present, 16 have chosen to be part of a committee to continue this important work.

"As the Mayor of Russell Township, I'm both humbled and inspired by the community's proactive response to our healthcare challenges. This initiative isn't just about filling vacancies; it's about building a sustainable healthcare system that serves the needs of our growing, bilingual community. We're not just recruiting doctors; we're inviting them to become part of our vibrant community. Together, we're not just solving a problem; we're creating a legacy of community-driven healthcare for generations to come." - Mayor Pierre Leroux.

The highlight of these initiatives is the video produced, which is intended to showcase local healthcare facilities and the growing healthcare needs of Russell Township. The main goal is to attract new healthcare professionals to the area, alleviating the shortage of physicians. We extend our heartfelt thanks to all those who participated in the creation of this video and hope that residents will share it widely to encourage more healthcare workers to consider Russell Township as their professional home.

View the video

For more information, contact the Economic Development Department.