We've heard about it in other communities and now Humboldt is facing the same situation - we are short of doctors.
Prior to November 1, 2010, we were functioning reasonably well with the patient flow at the Humboldt Clinic. We were running with nine doctors servicing about 30,000 - 35,000 people.
We have now dropped to eight doctors and, Humboldt and surrounding area is growing. We are feeling the pressure. Patients who require medical attention must realize the situation and work with us.
Obviously, anything of an urgent nature should be taken to the hospital.
Anything that is considered non-urgent should be booking an appointment at the clinic.
The clinic is presently booked for four to five days in advance. Therefore, patients have to plan appropriately and book their appointments in advance.
Anyone requesting a non-urgent appointment will be offered the first available appointment and the patient also has the option of putting their name on the cancellation board to be called in sooner if an appointment opens up.
The clinic calls people in off the cancellation board on a daily basis. Cases are triaged according to severity as assessed by a physician.
We are also requesting people to call if they are not able to make their appointment so they are not wasted.
People should be talking to their pharmacists; maybe what they need can be purchased over the counter. ie. Tylenol for pain/fever, decongestants for colds, etc.
Patients presenting to the Humboldt Clinic with non-urgent symptoms will be either put on the cancellation board or will be fit in to see one of the doctors depending on the situation.
If you are being fitted in; you have to realize that the doctors are booked and you will have to wait.
It is an ongoing battle trying to recruit physicians. The Saskatoon Health Region and the Humboldt Clinic are both working on this project, but rural Saskatchewan just isn't as appealing as the bigger cities due to work load.
It is also quite time-consuming when you find a physician from out of country. It could take four to six months from the time they sign the contract to when they are actually able to practice.
We appreciate your patience and thank you in advance for your co-operation.
Dr. Daniel Kirchgesner
Dr. Warren Huber
Dr. Carrie Levick
Dr. Russom Ockbazghi
Dr. Jackie Bourgeois
Dr. Caswell Radebe
Dr. Nevine Mahrous
Dr. Kevin Ledding
Humboldt, SK
