Killarney Hospital Welcomes Two International Doctors to Combat Staffing Shortage

Two internationally trained physicians have been recruited to join the medical staff at Killarney’s Tri-Lake Health Centre, addressing a critical staffing shortage at this regional healthcare facility. The couple, identified as Shamsudeen and Olamide Usman, were brought in through the University of Manitoba’s medical licensure program for international medical graduates, a move that is expected to bolster healthcare services in the area.

Janice Smith, Mayor of Killarney-Turtle Mountain, expressed her enthusiasm about the Usmans’ arrival, stating, “They are very anxious to get their careers going and we are just thrilled that they are going to be part of our community.” The couple recently visited Killarney, located approximately 240 kilometers southwest of Winnipeg, to familiarize themselves with the local schools, housing options, recreational facilities, and the health centre where they will provide care.

The Tri-Lake Health Centre offers a comprehensive range of services, including a 24/7 emergency unit, personal care facilities, palliative care, a medical laboratory, and diagnostic imaging services like X-ray and ultrasound. With the Usmans expected to start their practice in late August or September 2026, their addition will bring the total number of physicians at the facility to five.

The Usmans, both in their thirties and parents to three young children, visited multiple communities before choosing Killarney as their new home. “They actually chose us,” Smith noted, highlighting the community’s appeal.

Manitoba has been grappling with a significant shortage of doctors, particularly in rural regions. According to Doctors Manitoba, the province ranks second-last in Canada for the number of physicians per capita. A report released in October indicated that while recruitment efforts have improved, challenges such as retirements, burnout, and out-migration threaten ongoing progress.

In a statement, Nichelle Desilets, president of Doctors Manitoba and a family physician in Neepawa, welcomed the Usmans, stating, “This is great news to cap off what’s turned into a record-breaking year for doctor recruitment.” She emphasized the need for focus on retaining physicians, as current statistics indicate that Manitoba struggles with doctor retention.

Killarney has successfully utilized the services of Waterford Global, a recruitment firm based in Winnipeg, to attract healthcare professionals. Last year, Dr. Jim Heptinstall and Dr. Dominic Hennessy, both from England, joined the community, complementing the existing staff that includes Dr. Mark Bemment, also from the UK.

Smith reiterated the ongoing challenge of recruiting medical professionals, stating, “You never stop recruiting. It is so difficult to recruit and to get doctors to come because you’re dealing with people’s lives and situations change.”

The arrival of the Usmans represents a positive step forward in addressing the healthcare needs of the Killarney community, bringing hope for improved medical services in the region as the healthcare landscape continues to evolve.