Fort MacMurray has gained a new OB/GYN, a sorely needed addition in the local medical community. This is the second OB/GYN specialist that has been recruited to the area this year by Alberta Health Services. Earlier this year it was announced that Dr. Nnabuike Ngene would open a maternity and women care practice in Fort MacMurray later this summer. The newest physician to come to the local area and specialize in gynecology and obstetrics is Dr. Nnamdi Okoroafor. Recruitment efforts by AHS managed to convince Dr. Okoroafor to leave his position in Labrador City, N.L., and come to Fort MacMurray instead. The goal is to increase the access that women in Wood Buffalo have to obstetrical and gynecological services, something that many agree needs to be addressed.

Fort MacMurray Mayor Melissa Blake discussed the new OB/GYN specialists and the need for these services, saying “The birth rate in Wood Buffalo continues to rise and the community has long been rallying for increased obstetrical support. The recruitment of Dr. Okoroafor is great news for the entire region.” According to Kim Fleming, a physician resource planner, “We continue to work closely with community members and stakeholders to secure family medicine physicians and specialists – particularly those who specialize in obstetrical care – a critical need in Wood Buffalo.” AHS spokesperson Kirsten Goruk there were two OB/GYN practitioners in Wood Buffalo and Fort MacMurray before recruitment efforts started. With the two new physicians recruited this means that there will be 4 specialists in women and maternity care that residents can use for these services.