Huntsville General Committee approved a $70,000 incentive to the Town’s physician recruitment program, in the October 30, 2024, meeting.

According to the staff report, the initial program offers $60,000 to doctors taking over an existing practice, and $80,000 to those starting a new one.

Economic Development Officer, Lauren MacDermid, said that staff recognized an opportunity to compensate physicians with the $70,000 for taking patients off the Town’s waiting list in addition to taking over an existing practice.

Her report indicates that the incentive applies if physicians “take more than 200 Huntsville patients off the Algonquin Family Healthcare Team (AFHT) waitlist.”

MacDermid advised that the initial program has proved successful so far, resulting in two new physicians signing agreements to reside in the community. One is opening a new practice, and the other is taking over an existing one.

She added that there will also be another physician establishing a new practice soon, plus three more signing with the Town in the summer of 2025, including consideration to taking on patients from the waitlist.

She also urges the public not to contact the physician’s offices directly to be removed from the waiting list, as it’s “overwhelming” to them. She said the Town has a process for the wait list, however, if you want to ensure you’re on it or to sign up you can visit the https://algonquinfht.ca/need-a-doctor/.

Councillor, Bob Stone, said that his wife who works in administration for a local health hub was happy to be able to make calls to people that have been waiting up to 4 years for a doctor that apparently “wanted to hug her over the phone,” because of their appreciation.

Councillor, Scott Morrison, said that he didn’t anticipate results to quickly. He added that they are also working on a “retention incentive strategy to recognize healthcare workers in the Town.”

He added that the Town will soon have about 8-9 new doctors.

MacDermid advised that as the Town continues to work on the program goals “we’ll make a significant impact.”

Councillor, Cory Clarke, along with the other Council members expressed appreciation for the work that’s gone into making the program a success.

He said, “It’s a success story not only for Huntsville but with this Council.” He added, “This program is making a difference in Huntsville and I’m glad to be a part of it on Council.”