Local doctor says collaborative clinics attractive to new medical grads

Doctor offers some health-care advice to council
Published Tuesday June 8th, 2010
Letters to the editor
C6

Re: Doctor recruitment

Regarding recent Daily Gleaner stories about physician recruitment efforts and collaborative-care clinics, as a recently graduated family physician who's new to Fredericton, I agree that a community-supported collaborative-care clinic would be an attractive offer to doctors looking to set up a new practice.

It's encouraging that our city council has expressed unanimous support for the concept, which is already working in other communities across Canada.

Anything that makes it easier for us to get right into doing what we were trained to do - to care for patients - and reduces the administrative hassles of establishing a clinic is definitely win-win for everyone.

Of course, attracting more doctors is but one small thing city council can do to promote a healthy Fredericton.

There are yet other concepts that recognize the role of municipal government in promoting public health.

Reducing urban sprawl in favour of dense, pedestrian-friendly neighbourhoods would discourage dependence on cars to get around, so people walk and bike more and keep physically fit.

Another is protecting our parks and natural spaces, and supporting cultural and leisure activities so citizens have places to de-stress and keep mentally healthy.

Providing high-quality community programs and services for residents of all ages to promote the social wellness of all Frederictonians would be positive as well.

City council's support for a collaborative-care clinic brings it in line with what other cities in Canada have to offer to new physicians.

Where Fredericton needs to up the ante is in its repertoire of available amenities and services, not just to new doctors but to residents in general.

Ultimately, the same thing that makes Fredericton more attractive to any prospective newcomer - quality of life - is what will attract and retain doctors in the city.

Dr. Vincent Paul Escanlar

Fredericton