Dr. John O’Connor, a respected Fort Chipewyan physician who has been serving the local community for more than 15 years, has been suddenly terminated without any explanation. Last Friday evening Dr. O’Connor was informed that Fort Chipewyan no longer required his medical services, and up until that moment the physician felt that he was secure in his employment. Two other physicians in the local area will cover the role that the physician performed. When asked about the termination Dr. O’Connor stated “I feel like a part of my family has been ripped away from me. It’s very unsettling this was being discussed without me. I haven’t been told of any complaints made by me from patients or staff. I’ve always tried to be there for Fort Chipewyan. If I’ve done something wrong, I would love to know.”

Being terminated by Fort Chipewyan does not mean that Dr. John O’Connor will be applying for unemployment benefits any time soon though. The doctor is still a family physician in Fort McKay and the health director for the community as well as being involved with the Northern Lights Regional Health Centre. As an on call consultant Dr. O’Connor was responsible for providing medical advice to paramedics and nurses, arranging for hospital admissions and medical evacuations, and refilling prescriptions. What makes the situation even worse is that the physician was informed that he was terminated through a chain email. According to Dr. O’Connor the email did not give a reason or explanation for the termination.