Burns Lake welcomes five new doctors and two associate physicians

The Burns Lake community officially welcomed five new physicians and two associate physicians at the Great Healthcare Welcome Walk held on Sept. 3 at Spirit Square. The welcoming event was attended by healthcare professionals, local officials, and community members. Mayor Henry Wiebe expressed his gratitude, emphasizing how the dedication and compassion of the new providers will make a meaningful difference for families and residents in the Lakes District.

Joining the healthcare team are doctors Nikhil Patnaik, Benjamin Bedford, Harminder Gakhal, Isaac Adetipe, and Konrad Joseph. Among them, Dr. Bedford previously served the Lakes District as a nurse and has now returned with his family as a licensed physician. Additionally, two new associate physicians, Dr. Alexander Okoronkwo and Dr. Trishala, were welcomed under a provincial program that allows internationally trained doctors to practice under supervision to improve care quality.

As the new medical professionals arrive, two existing doctors will depart the community. Dr. Tammy Williams is set to retire on Sept. 17 after 10 years of service, and Dr. Amara Igbom will leave in November after three years to join her family in Prince George. Lisa Puglas, the health services administrator for Burns Lake, noted that despite recent staffing challenges and closures, the new arrivals will help strengthen local services and ensure sustainable, high-quality care close to home.