A new physician recruitment video unveiled at a public event Thursday aims to bring more doctors to Kamloops and showcase video-production technology developed here.
Health-care professionals and business leaders gathered Thursday to witness the newest tool in Venture Kamloops’ Red Carpet physician recruitment program.
Kamloops firm Mastermind Studios spent the past five months developing an interactive video — as a gift of community support — designed to catch the attention of a range of physicians, from family doctors to specialists.
Company president Peter Cameron-Inglis said the video allows prospective physicians to follow their interest, whether it’s resources, opportunities or medical services. Following a short introduction, viewers can click on hot-link buttons.
The video will be embedded on the Venture Kamloops website and efforts are being made to make it available more widely on the Internet.
“There are a lot of nice people from nice towns doing what we’re doing,” said Venture Kamloops CEO Jim Anderson. “We need this to help stand out.”
One of the biggest fans is Steven Rollheiser, a medical doctor who narrates the video.
“I’m hoping it gets the attention I think it will,” said the head of Royal Inland Hospital’s medical staff.
“It’s nicely packaged but it’s not a spin job.”
Rollheiser helped recruit local doctors to do testimonials, including doctors Shauna Tsuchiya, Tracey Smillie and Julie Anderson (the company is looking for more testimonials from male physicians).
Most tout outdoor amenities available in a family friendly city with outstanding sports and facilities. Several also mention a commute of 10 minutes or less.
Coun. Arjun Singh, who was on hand at the event at Royal Inland Hospital, said the doctor testimonials carry weight.
“The doctors speaking is, to me, the most interesting part.”
Despite continuing shortages in family medicine and specialists, Dr. Dave Sanden, president of the medical advisory committee, said Interior Health Authority has recruited 30 physicians in the past 18 months (10 of whom are no longer here).
“I think we already have quite a few people interested in Kamloops,” said Sanden, one of the physicians who helps with screening and references. “This will increase my workload.”
Cameron-Inglis said the video is more than a community gift for his company — it’s a showcase for the company’s technology as it moves into the health-care field.
