New family physician practising in Westlock, Barrhead

WESTLOCK — Local residents have increased access to primary care with the arrival of a new family physician.

Dr. Nicholas Field started practising in August at both the Westlock Healthcare Centre and Barrhead Healthcare Centre.

Originally from Edmonton, Dr. Field did his medical training at the University of Calgary, completing his residency at the University of Alberta as a general practitioner (GP) with expertise in anesthesiology.

“Family physicians with anesthesia skills help to consolidate our rural surgical programs between our two towns,” says Dr. Firdaus Mydeen, Area Zone Medical Director for Westlock and Barrhead in the North Zone of Alberta Health Services (AHS). “Dr. Field is a great addition to our care team and his skills are a valuable asset to local residents.”

Local surgery services include orthopedic surgeries such as joint replacements, shoulder surgeries and trauma surgeries; C-sections; tonsillectomies; cataracts; and ear, neck and throat surgeries; as well as gastroscopies, colonoscopies and general surgery.

"This is great news for Westlock and Barhead, as well as for the surrounding communities," says Sarah Hoffman, Minister of Health. "I want to thank Dr. Field for using his skills and experience to improve primary care in rural Alberta, and I am proud that our government is ensuring physicians are there for Albertans when they need them."

Dr. Field enjoys an active outdoor lifestyle as well as travelling and spending time with his family. He says he is looking forward to experiencing the “rural community vibe” of Westlock and Barrhead.

AHS has three physician resource planners dedicated to identifying and pursuing physician recruitment opportunities for AHS North Zone. They work closely with various community partners and organizations, such as local Health Advisory Councils, the Rural Health Professions Action Plan, and independent community physician recruitment and retention committees.

Alberta Health Services is the provincial health authority responsible for planning and delivering health supports and services for more than four million adults and children living in Alberta. Its mission is to provide a patient-focused, quality health system that is accessible and sustainable for all Albertans.