The number of practicing doctors in Lethbridge is rising, according to a new report. (Photo: Lethbridge News Now)

By David Opinko

Number of physicians in Lethbridge increases over last quarter

Oct 15, 2024 | 11:20 AM

LETHBRIDGE, AB – While it may still not seem like it for those without a primary care provider, there is now reportedly a greater number of doctors practicing in the city.

That is according to the latest quarterly report from the College of Physicians & Surgeons of Alberta, which covers the period from July 1 to September 30, 2024.

It says there were 313 physicians in Lethbridge during that period, an increase of seven compared to the previous quarter.

The city has experienced a net gain of 22 doctors over the past year, rising by 7.6 per cent.

It is important to note that these numbers include all types of physicians, not just family doctors.

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There might have been a different situation elsewhere in the region, though, as the South Health Zone only had an increase of 17 doctors. So, while Lethbridge had an additional 22 physicians, five were lost in other communities.

As of the publication of this article, AlbertaFindADoctor.ca does not list any family doctors in Lethbridge who are accepting new patients. One clinic in Pincher Creek is.

Alberta-wide, the number of practicing physicians grew by 518 over the last year, or 4.5 per cent. The greatest growth was seen in Calgary.

Health Minister Adriana LaGrange says this is good news for Albertans.

“These record numbers reflect that there are more doctors registered in Alberta today than at any other time in the province’s history,” says LaGrange. “The province has also seen its most significant third-quarter growth rate since before 2015. This demonstrates that our efforts to attract and retain physicians are paying off, but we recognize there is more to be done.”

The Alberta Government announced Tuesday the creation of Primary Care Alberta, the new agency devoted to the delivery of primary healthcare services. More details to come.

The full report on quarterly physician resources can be found on the College of Physicians & Surgeons of Alberta.

READ MORE: Lethbridge News Now.

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