There’s a shortage of family doctors in Renfrew County and the list of residents without one is about to grow.
Another doctor in the Ottawa Valley has announced their retirement. Dr. Roland Hing has a large medical practice in Pembroke and recently announced his retirement is set for September 30th.
Renfrew County’s Primary Care Network is working with the Pembroke Regional Hospital to ensure all residents have access to a family physician or nurse practitioner. Both organizations confirm there is a shortage of primary care providers taking on new patients in the region, but say those seeking health care do have a number of options available to them.
Anyone who needs a family doctor can register with Health Care Connect online or by calling 1-800-445-1822.
You cannot be attached to a primary care practice when you register, meaning Dr. Hing’s patients would not be eligible to register with Health Care Connect to find a new family doctor until October 1st.
For health concerns you can contact the Renfrew County Virtual Triage and Assessment Centre (RCVTAC) by calling 1-844-727-6404.
There’s also a new Health Connect Ontario service for health advice by calling 811 or you can chat with a registered nurse online.
If you have a medical emergency you should attend the closest hospital Emergency Department or call 911.
(written by: Rudy Kadlec)
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