Heather Latter
While there’s been a doctor shortage in the area for several years, the situation is looking up.
Dr. Cynthia Saliba, a family physician who began practising here last September, and Beth Lowes, a third-year medical student from the Northern Ontario School of Medicine currently on placement here, both are enjoying the area.
“It’s a really great community,” enthused Lowes, noting she wanted to do her placement in Fort Frances since her mom grew up here and she was familiar with the town.
“There is everything you need here,” she remarked. “I don’t feel at a loss being here.”
She listed the proximity to the U.S. as a bonus, as well.
Lowes also completed a placement in Emo, so she got a taste of small-town living there.
“It’s been a wonderful experience so far,” she said. “I think in a smaller town you get to experience more.”
Lowes is planning on becoming a family physician, which is a two-year residency, then said returning to practice in Fort Frances is an option.
“It is certainly a possibility,” she said, but stressed there is no commitment yet.
Lowes will be working in Fort Frances until mid-April.
Dr. Saliba, meanwhile, has enjoyed her first year in town.
“It went by quickly,” she remarked. “And the community has been friendly and welcoming.”
She is still building her practice and is accepting new patients at this time.
“It’s a good working environment, too,” Dr. Saliba added, noting the other physicians are very helpful and supportive.
Physician recruiter Jackie Lampi-Hughes said she’s thrilled the two women are enjoying living and working in Fort Frances, and she continues to work on bringing more doctors to the area.
