The Sylvan Lake Health Professional Attraction and Retention Committee has recently been rebranded.
The entity is now known as the Healthcare Attraction and Retention Team (HART).
This name change reflects a deeper commitment to building a welcoming, connected community for healthcare professionals in Sylvan Lake, chair of HART Onsy Tawardous said.
"We realized that our old name was a mouthful and didn't capture the spirit of what we're trying to achieve. No one could remember who we were or what we stood for. We needed a change, something that really spoke to our mission and values."
The new name, HART, is a reflection of the passion and purpose that drives the committee, he added.
"The work we do is all about heart. We want to be more than just a committee; we want to be a source of warmth and support, a welcoming place where new healthcare workers can feel safe and connected to our community from day one."
HART's mission is to ensure that healthcare professionals who come to Sylvan Lake find a place to work and belong.
The committee works with the Town of Sylvan Lake council, local administration, and community members to create a supportive environment for both new recruits and long-term professionals.
"Our goal is to be the first friendly face they see. We want them to know that they're not just joining a team; they're joining a community that cares about them," Tawardous said.
Objectives of the committee include:
- Developing strategies to attract healthcare professionals
- Collaborating with health partners like Alberta Health Services and the Rural Health Professions Action Plan
- Enhancing access to resources and amenities that support healthcare professionals
- Facilitating community integration for healthcare workers and their families
By involving the healthcare professionals in community activities and connecting them with local resources, HART helps the new arrivals feel at home, Tawardous said.
"Attracting and retaining healthcare professionals i more than just filling positions; it's about ensuring that every resident of Sylvan Lake has access to quality healthcare when they need it. We're committed to doing everything we can to make this happen."
For HART the future is looking bright.
"We're excited to welcome new healthcare workers to town and hope to be known for our warm, heartfelt connections. At the end of the day, it's all about building a stronger, healthier community together," Tawardous said.
Current members of HART include Tawardous, Mayor Megan Hanson, councillor Teresa Rilling, Susan Samson, Marian George, Klaas Van Veller, Kanis Org, and Nicole Hand.
More information on the committee can be found on the Town of Sylvan Lake website, sylvanlake.ca/en/your-government/boards-and-committees.aspx.
