January 2026
Author: Adam Hambly
Did You Know?
Health Care Connect, the provincial waitlist for a family doctor, no longer requires residents to give up their current doctor in order to register. In the past, anyone looking to be matched with a physician in a more convenient location had to leave their existing provider to join the waitlist. That is no longer the case. Residents can now sign up for Health Care Connect and remain with their current doctor until they are successfully attached to a new one.
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Recruitment news
Highlights:
1. 2025 focused on physician retention, supporting the doctors already caring for PEC residents.
2. Creation of a new recruitment video
3. Expansion of international recruitment strategy
Over the past year, County Docs has focused on physician retention through practical, behind-the-scenes support that helps make long-term practice in Prince Edward County sustainable. This work has included assisting with office transitions and relocations as practices grow or change, supporting staffing needs and team development, and facilitating access to education and professional development opportunities. We have also prioritized team-building and physician appreciation activities that strengthen connection and morale; while coordinating vacation coverage and locum physician support so doctors can take time away without disrupting patient care. In addition, we continue to assist with housing needs, which remains an increasingly important factor in whether physicians are able to stay and build their lives in the County. These efforts reduce burnout, support work–life balance, and allow physicians to focus on patient care.
By The Numbers - Q4 Highlights
•12 new leads engaged this past quarter
•2 site visits from prospective physicians
•Actively following 26 leads, 5 of which are considered high-potential
While physician recruitment often gets the most attention, this past quarter has reinforced how important retention truly is. Keeping physicians in our community means continuity of care for patients, stability for practices, and a stronger healthcare system for Prince Edward County as a whole.
On a personal level, this quarter has been especially meaningful. Watching our physician team solidify, seeing relationships strengthen, and experiencing the growing sense of trust and collaboration has been incredibly rewarding. The friendships that have deepened and the integration we’ve seen across our team reminded me that retention isn’t just about systems and supports; it’s about people, community, and feeling at home. We look forward to continuing to grow our team in 2026.
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Check us out at www.countydocs.ca