July 2016, Belleville General Hospital, Aerial Photo, Photographer: Marilyn Warren
The addition of a new psychiatrist at Quinte Health is anticipated to improve access to mental healthcare, says the City of Belleville.
The city and Quinte Health recently announced the signing of Dr. Katherine McArthur into the Belleville doctor recruitment program. McArthur is a psychiatrist whose considerable skills will complement the hard-working mental-health team at Quinte Health, reads a recent release from the city.
“I value empathy and compassion when working with those who have mental health challenges and look forward to supporting Belleville and the surrounding community as a psychiatrist,” said McArthur, in the release.
Meanwhile, psychiatrist and chief of staff Dr. Colin MacPherson with Quinte Health anticipates the addition of McArthur will enhance access to local services, and says the team is delighted to welcome her.
“The commitment from the City of Belleville to support physician recruitment efforts has had a remarkable and positive impact on local access to care,” added MacPherson.
Mayor Neil Ellis said McArthur brings a valuable set of skills that will make the community a better place for many residents and families.
“Council is very pleased that we have been able to partner with Quinte Health to bring her to our community and we know she will provide exceptional care to her patients,” said Ellis.
The city’s release further reads that although healthcare and physician recruitment aren’t municipal responsibilities, the city recognizes growing need locally. The city says it’s implemented one of the most successful physician recruitment programs provincewide, following the recruitment of more than 50 physicians and eight nurse practitioners.
The program is reportedly funded by the dividends the city receives as a shareholder of Elexicon Energy, and to date, more than $8 million has been committed to attracting primary healthcare providers.
“The city has recognized the importance of, and the challenges with, attracting much-needed specialists to the area and has been working closely with Quinte Health to attract the skills needed by local residents,” reads the release.
For residents in need of a family doctor or a nurse practitioner, city officials are reminding people to register with Health Care Connect. People can register by calling 1-800-445-1822 (TTY 1-800-387-5559) or by visiting the HCC website.
(Written by: Sarah Hyatt)
