A new surgical program is set to open at the Northern Lights Health Centre.

With the recent recruitment of two new orthopedic surgeons, patients in Fort McMurray Wood Buffalo will now enjoy improved access to hip and knee surgeries.

AHS announces this program is part of the Alberta Surgical Initiative, which was launched in 2019 with the aim of curbing surgical wait times across the province.

“Enhanced access to hip and knee surgeries for residents in northern Alberta and the Fort McMurray region is made feasible through funding from the Alberta Surgical Initiative,” says Adriana LaGrange, Minister of Health.

“Through this initiative, we are committed to ensuring that all Albertans receive their surgeries within clinically appropriate wait times.”

By late this year, the Northern Lights Health Centre is projected to be able to perform up to 32 local hip and knee surgeries each month.

“I am exceedingly delighted to witness the launch of this new surgical program in Fort McMurray,” adds Tany Yao, MLA for Fort McMurray-Wood Buffalo.

“I extend my gratitude to all the staff at the Northern Lights Regional Health Centre for their role in making this program a reality.”

Gerald Ramsay, a Fort McMurray resident, has already benefited from the program.

On July 4, he became the program’s first patient, undergoing hip replacement surgery and being discharged the following day. The surgery was conducted by Dr. Mansour Abolghasemian.

“My care experience was exceptional,” Ramsay remarks.

“I already sense increased mobility and reduced pain, allowing me to walk and exercise regularly.”

This program means many patients will be spared the need for a lengthy trip to Edmonton for their hip and knee procedures.