UK doctors eye Leeds and Grenville as region fights growing family doctor shortage

In August, 20 physicians from the UK attended a virtual event connecting them with local doctors

Efforts to bring new family doctors to Leeds and Grenville are showing signs of progress as several physicians from the United Kingdom prepare to visit the region later this month.

Health Workforce Innovations Inc., led by former Ontario health minister George Smitherman and partner Sherri Fournier Hudson, has been working since February to attract international physicians to fill local vacancies. The company is recruiting from overseas rather than nearby communities to support long-term solutions to Ontario’s family doctor shortage.

In August, 20 physicians from the UK attended a virtual event connecting them with local doctors. Some of those participants are now planning in-person visits on November 24.

There are currently 16 primary care vacancies in Leeds and Grenville, and a recent study found nearly half of local doctors are considering reducing or ending their practices within five years. Officials hope the visits will help ease pressure on the strained health-care system.

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