Alberta’s physician shortage has been a longstanding concern, with over 650,000 residents across the province lacking access to regular healthcare providers. Vermilion, too, has faced its share of challenges, including 2 periodic closures of its emergency department due to staffing shortages. The Vermilion Health Care Centre’s emergency department has often been strained by non-emergency cases, leading to long wait times and overburdened doctors.
However, the tide has finally turned, marking a new chapter for the town. Thanks to a dedicated recruitment effort, Vermilion has welcomed not one, not two, but three new family physicians, with one more coming in 2025.
Area Manager of the Vermilion Health Centre, Darlene McQuid, proudly stated that,
“We have recruited four new doctors—three who are already here and a fourth arriving soon. We are extremely lucky to have these physicians join our community. They will provide comprehensive medical care for people of all ages, from preventative health to palliative care.”
McQuid emphasized the vital role of family physicians, who offer both acute and chronic care while fostering long-term relationships with their patients. They are trained to work across all care settings, including primary care clinics, emergency rooms, hospitals, and long-term care facilities.
Residents of Vermilion and its surrounding communities have long called for a resolution to the physician shortage, and their cries have not gone unheard. The Health Care Providers Attraction & Retention Committee has played a pivotal role in bringing these much-needed medical professionals to town.
“We worked very hard to recruit these new doctors,” said Kirby Whitlock, a member of the committee. “Vermilion no longer faces a shortage of family physicians, and they are taking on new patients. By bringing in these doctors, we aim to reduce visits to the emergency department for minor issues.”
Whitlock encouraged community members to take full advantage of the new physicians to ensure their practice thrives and that they remain in Vermilion. “Our doctors are excited to build their practices and connect with the community. You don’t have to live in Vermilion to have a family doctor here.”
The waitlist to see a doctor in Vermilion has significantly improved, with some patients able to secure same-day appointments at Midtown Medical Clinic.
Meet Vermilion’s Doctors
Each of the new physicians brings a wealth of experience and a personal connection to rural life:
Dr. Akrm Krimeed: graduated in 2010 with his MB BCh and practices family and emergency medicine covering the 24-hour emergency department, acute and long-term care, and the clinic. He is accepting new patients.
Dr. Omar Abugharsa: graduated in 2008 with his MB BCh and practices family and emergency medicine covering the 24-hour emergency department, acute and long-term care, and the clinic. He is accepting new patients.
Dr. Ashraf Al Oud: graduated in 2008 with his MB BCh and practices family and emergency medicine covering the 24-hour emergency department, acute and long-term care, and the clinic. He is accepting new patients.
Dr. Maulud: graduated in 1993 with her MB BCh and has been the owner of My Medical Clinic for many years. She practices family and emergency medicine covering the 24-hour emergency department, acute and long-term care, and the clinic. She is accepting new patients. She is eager to welcome new patients so she can provide long-term care in the community and area.
Dr. Louw: graduated in 1977 with his MB ChB and practices family and emergency medicine covering the 24-hour emergency department, acute and long-term care, and the clinic and is accepting new patients. as well as Dr. Khan graduated in 1982 with an MBBS and brought with her years of family and emergency medicine experience, covering the 24-hour emergency department, acute and long-term care, and clinic.
It is also important to note that all doctors practicing in Vermilion are also available every day until 10 p.m. for in-patient and long-term care by phone.
The recruitment of these physicians signals a brighter future for Vermilion, addressing a critical need and strengthening the foundation of the local healthcare system. With passionate doctors ready to serve, residents can look forward to better access to care and improved health outcomes. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Maulud call My Medical Clinic at 780-853-6655. To schedule an appointment with either Dr. Krimeed, Dr. Abugharsa, Dr. Oud, Dr. Louw or Dr. Khan please call, Midtown Medical Clinic at 780-853-2809.
Indeed, Vermilion is one of the luckiest rural towns in Alberta with currently six family physicians that are accepting new patients and another one possibly two on the way.