While many communities struggle with healthcare shortages, Welland residents now have more options for medical care. Since 2023, over 15 new doctors have opened practices in the city, marking a significant improvement in healthcare accessibility for local residents.
Welland defies nationwide trend with 15+ new doctors establishing practices since 2023, dramatically improving healthcare access for residents.
The influx of physicians includes both specialists and primary care providers spread across multiple facilities. Clinics such as MedCare Clinics and Phoenix Medical Clinic are among those welcoming new patients. Many of these doctors offer multilingual services, making healthcare more accessible to Welland’s diverse population.
Among the new healthcare providers are Dr. Ekene Azuamah at Ace Family Practice Clinic on Lincoln Street and Dr. Sameh Zayed with the Welland McMaster Family Health Team. Other physicians include Dr. Hamzah Jamal Khan at Intrepid Health on Niagara Street, Dr. Donald Oboh at Phoenix Medical Clinic on Thorold Road, and Dr. Akinpelu Babatunde at Division Street Clinic.
This success stems from partnerships with the Niagara Ontario Health Team aimed at addressing doctor shortages. The initiative includes programs for new graduates and support for foreign-trained doctors. Resources through Niagara physician recruitment centers have helped these professionals establish their practices quickly.
Patients can access care through multiple avenues, with many family practices now accepting walk-ins. Intake forms are available online or at clinics like Phoenix Medical. Several facilities offer extended hours, and Health811 helps match patients with primary care providers.
The new doctors provide extensive services including general family care, women’s health services, pediatric care, chronic disease management, mental health services, and walk-in care for minor injuries. These physicians have benefited from comprehensive structured orientation processes designed to integrate them into the local healthcare ecosystem.
The impact has been notable, with reduced wait times for primary care and improved health outcomes through preventative services. The community has also seen more healthcare sector jobs.
Looking forward, Welland plans to recruit more international doctors in 2025, gather patient feedback, collaborate with regional health teams, and develop facilities in underserved areas. Officials also plan campaigns to increase awareness about these new healthcare resources.
As Welland deepens its investment in community health, the ripple effects are becoming increasingly clear. These efforts mark a shift toward proactive, locally-driven care that addresses longstanding gaps. For more updates on how healthcare is evolving across the region, head to Marketplace Niagara.
