UPDATE: Officials say Dr. Ukeakbu is no longer able to accept new patients.
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Drayton Valley has recruited a new family physician who is now available to provide care to residents in the community.
Officials with AHS say Dr. Joel Ukaegbu has begun working out of the Claro Family Practice and Drayton Valley Hospital and Care Centre (AHS Facility). Residents in need of a family doctor are being encouraged to call 780-621-0202 to arrange a meet-and-greet appointment.
Andrew Boitchenko, MLA for Drayton Valley – Devon, says the addition of Dr. Ukaegbu will increase the quality of life for residents in the area.
“Family doctors are vital to the health of Albertans and their communities,” says Boitchenko. “We are pleased to welcome Dr. Ukaegbu to Drayton Valley, where I am certain his knowledge and skills will be much appreciated.”
Staff with the Claro Family Practice say they now have five physicians, which makes for a total of 15 physicians serving the community.
AHS says Dr. Ukaegbu received his medical training in Nigeria and practiced in South Africa prior to coming to Canada. In his leisure time, he says he enjoys reading and playing soccer.
Officials with Alberta Health Services (AHS) say they will continue to recruit for physicians across the Central Zone to meet community needs. AHS says it has many physician resource planners who are dedicated to identifying and pursuing international and domestic physician recruitment opportunities. They work closely with various community partners and organizations, such as the Rural Health Professions Action Plan, and independent physician recruitment and retention committees.
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