Prairie Mountain Health says internationally trained physicians are continuing to strengthen rural health-care services across western Manitoba through provincial recruitment and licensure programs.
The health region, along with community partners, is sponsoring physicians through two University of Manitoba Max Rady College of Medicine initiatives aimed at helping internationally educated doctors begin practising in Manitoba communities.
One of those programs, the Manitoba Licensure Program for International Medical Graduates, supports physicians through a one-year training process before they begin practising independently.
As part of that initiative, Dr. Porimol Debnath, originally from Bangladesh, visited Russell and the surrounding area on March 28 ahead of an anticipated start later this fall.
“I really enjoyed my tour of the area,” Debnath said. “People were very warm and welcoming, and I really liked the hospital and clinic. I’m looking forward to starting work in Russell and building connections in the community.”
Prairie Mountain Health said representatives from the Municipality of Russell-Binscarth helped introduce Debnath to the community during the visit, which included a tour of the area and a stop at Asessippi Ski Area & Resort.
The health region has also welcomed two physicians through Manitoba’s Practice Ready Assessment program, which provides an accelerated pathway to licensure for qualified physicians following a three-month clinical evaluation.
Dr. Tolulope Oni and Dr. Marvis Ofurum completed the program in February and are now practising in Russell and Brandon, respectively.
Prairie Mountain Health said four additional physicians are currently completing the assessment process and are expected to begin practising in fall 2026, with planned placements in Russell, Swan River and Carberry.
By Steven Sukkau, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
Original Published on May 09, 2026 at 15:18
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