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BARRHEAD — A new obstetrician/gynecologist originally from Edmonton but with experience from the U.S. is now practicing in Barrhead, joining the existing team of 13 family medicine physicians and two specialists within the community.
According to an Alberta Health Services (AHS) release, Dr. Ruhee Sidhu completed her medical residency at Ascension Health in Michigan and is a U.S board-certified obstetrician/gynecologist.
Dr. Sidhu has practiced in Illinois, Michigan and Arizona, and also served as the director of gynecology at the Freeport Health Network in Illinois.
Along with her husband, a certified professional accountant also from Edmonton, and their son, Dr. Sidhu is moving back to Alberta to be closer to family.
“I am an Oilers fan for life,” she said with a laugh.
In the release, Athabasca-Barrhead-Westlock MLA Glenn van Dijken extended a warm welcome to Dr. Sidhu.
“I am so pleased she has returned to Alberta to continue her practice, which will provide increased access to obstetrics and gynecology care for area residents,” van DIjken said.
Associate zone medical director of AHS, Dr. Firdaus Mydeen, said Dr. Sidhu’s skills will not only help increase access to her field of medical care, but also provide more support to other physicians.
“She’s a welcome addition to the local care team,” said Dr. Mydeen.
The release states that in addition to spending time with family and enjoying more outdoor activities, Dr. Sidhu is excited about the prospect of serving her new community.
“I am passionate in the work that I do,” she said. “For me, this opportunity will allow women in rural settings to receive better access to services that are much needed, with a hope that this leads to a broader women’s health initiative.”
AHS continues to recruit for staff vacancies across northern Alberta to meet community needs, working closely with various community partners and organizations like local Health Advisory Councils, the Rural Health Professions Action Plan (RHPAP) and independent physician attraction and retention committees.
