Doctors Located for Springhill

There will be no interruption in service at Springhill's medical clinic, Health Minister Jim Smith said today. Two doctors will provide temporary support until the arrival of three family practitioners in the new year.

"These appointments will allow the medical clinic to remain open during the holiday season and well into January," said Dr. Smith. "We will continue to provide support to Springhill's recruitment efforts."

The locating of the two interim doctors resulted from a co-ordinated effort among representatives of the Northern Regional Health Board and the Department of Health, with support from the community.

The interim doctors will be at the Elm Street Medical Clinic in Springhill on Dec. 14. They will be staying until mid-January, providing coverage during the transitional period. The new family doctors are expected to open practices in the town in early January.

Concerns regarding the clinic arose earlier this month when it was realized that the remaining doctors would be leaving before the new physicians arrived.

Emergency coverage at All Saints Springhill Hospital will also be available 24 hours a day.