AHS announces new family physician in Ponoka

PONOKA -- Alberta Health Services says that a new family doctor has opened a practice in Ponoka. 

According to the provincial health agency, Dr. Sadia Iqbal is now accepting patients at the Ponoka Hospital and Care Centre and Battle River Medical Clinic. She received her medical education in Pakistan, and has nine years’ experience in her field. Prior to her arrival in Canada, Dr. Iqbal worked in Pakistan as an independent physician at hospitals in Karachi.

MLA Jennifer Johnson says the new family doctor is a welcome addition to Ponoka, its surrounding area.

"We’re pleased to welcome Dr. Sadia Iqbal to Ponoka," says Jennifer Johnson, MLA for Lacombe-Ponoka. "Her experience and dedication to family medicine will be a valuable addition to the community."

Individuals seeking a family doctor can call 403-783-3399 to inquire about setting up a meet-and-greet appointment. In a statement, AHS says that the new hire comes as part of their ongoing efforts to recruit physicians across the Central Zone to meet community needs.

In addition to their recruitment efforts, AHS adds that they're also currently focused on reducing emergency department wait times, improving EMS response times, increasing access to surgeries, and improving patient flow.