Kawartha Lakes Health Care Group seeking additional recruiter
The Kawartha Lakes Health Care Initiative is seeking an extra set of hands to help recruit and retain family doctors.
In April, current recruitment and retention co-ordinator Cindy Snider will mark her 16th anniversary with the organization.
“A big piece for me over the years is that I’m giving something back to the community,” said Snider, who moved to Bobcaygeon with her husband John 35 years ago and spent her first 20 years with the community’s Chamber of Commerce.
While she’s not quite ready to retire, Snider is looking to cut back on her hours.
The extra person would not only help her do this, it would enable Snider to focus on upcoming projects and administration and allow the new recruit to be well-versed in the job duties when Snider does leave.
“It’s getting busier and busier, and having another person here would be helpful,” said Snider, noting that despite having brought more than 40 new doctors to the Kawartha Lakes since the organization started 20 years ago, patient demand has changed very little; roughly one-third of residents do not have a primary-care provider.
“There’s also the possibility a new person could have new ideas. We’ve been successful, but there can always be a better way of doing things.”
The agency has also added a number of programs designed to promote practicing in the area, including rural experience and skills building days. Roughly 40 University of Toronto medical students are expected to take part in the upcoming spring session and expanded recruitment fairs.
“It’s a lot of work, but it’s also been very rewarding,” said Snider. “It’s introduced more people to family medicine in a rural setting … and very worthwhile because whether it’s this community or another one, the need is everywhere.”
Without factoring the thousands of new homes set to be built over the next 10 years, Kawartha Lakes is in need of between 15 and 18 doctors.
“We’ve had 10 clinics close in the last five years, eight of them being retirements,” said Snider, adding of the three most recently recruited doctors, none took over the existing practices.
Snider further points out the health care initiative isn’t just recruiting ‘the doctor’. Many have partners, with their own career paths. Others have children and/or wish to remain close to extended family. Lifestyle, particularly worklife balance, is also a key consideration.
Individuals interested in applying for the position are asked to submit their resumé to Kawartha Lakes Health Care Initiative president Andrew Veale at kawarthalakeshealthcare@gmail.com. Preferred candidates will have a post-secondary degree and minimum of three years experience in a related field, demonstrate skills in leadership, teamwork, communications, social media, marketing, public relations, computer literacy and time management, be self-motivated, energetic and innovative, and have a good working knowledge of the Kawartha Lakes and its communities. A valid driver’s license and vehicle for travel is required.
Only those selected for an interview will be contacted.