More doctors opening practices in south Calgary

The South Calgary Primary Care Network says 26 family physicians have opened offices to serve more Calgarians.

If you’re looking for a family doctor and you live in south Calgary, officials say more than two-dozen are now accepting new patients.

The South Calgary Primary Care Network (SCPCN) says 26 family doctors are now accepting patients at clinics across the area.

The group says Albertans are continuing to struggle to find a family doctor, so this is welcome news.

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“Having a family doctor is important for staying healthy, preventing hospital visits, and ensuring ongoing medical care,” said Dr. Noreen O’Riordan, SCPCN’s medical director, in a news release.

“We’re excited to welcome these doctors and help more people find a trusted healthcare provider.”

Family physicians are proven to be beneficial to patients, SCPCN said, providing them with better care and limiting visits to emergency rooms and hospitals.

Officials say there are 198 family doctors or nurse practitioners accepting new patients in Calgary. Anyone looking for one is encouraged to use online resources.

SCPCN says the new physicans came from its recruitment push and support to doctors and patients in supported care programs.

In the past six months, local access to care has increased by eight per cent.