The C.W Wiebe Medical Clinic has added two new physicians this summer in a continued effort to meet the growing need for family doctors.

"We're certainly getting closer," Clinic Manager Jim Neufeld says, adding many newcomers move into the community over the summer months.

"We still have a little bit of capacity to add physicians," he says. "Just to keep up with the growth of the area."

General Surgeon Dr. Jennifer Metcalfe and family physician and Anaesthesiologist Dr. Jarrod Nickel have both recently started their practices in Winkler.

"I really love the community," Metcalfe says, adding she's enjoyed getting to know her new colleagues at the C.W Wiebe Medical Clinic.

"I'm excited to start my career here," she says.

With a specialization in advanced Laparoscopic surgery (surgery through small incisions) Metcalfe says they will be able to offer additional procedures in the community without having to send patients to Winnipeg.

Metcalfe graduated from the University of Manitoba and says she looks forward to serving Winkler and the surrounding communities.

Dr. Jarrod Nickel, a Family Doctor and Anesthesiologist, also began recently at the clinic

Dr. Jarrod Nickel also recently began at the clinic.

He says it's exciting to see the wide range of expertise among the local health practitioners.

"It's really nice you can have a centre outside of Winkler that offers all those services," he says. "And I'm really excited to join this group and offer my specialty."

With the two new hires, the total number of physicians comes to 41, with 13 alternate care providers. The clinic is also home to 70 support staff.

More doctors are also crucial in succession planning, Neufeld says, as more long-time staff begin reducing their work load or consider retirement.

Clinic Manager Jim Neufeld