A new physician, the second in less than a year, is joining Blanche River Health (BRH), announced Jorge VanSlyke, President and CEO.  

Dr. Grace Zheng, who grew up in Vancouver, British Columbia and is a graduate of the University of British Columbia Medical School, has accepted a position at both the Englehart and Kirkland Lake sites of BRH. 

While completing her Family Medicine Residency from the University of Toronto in the winter of 2024, Dr. Zheng spent three months at BRH for her rural medicine placement, an experience that influenced her decision to move to the area.  

“Blanche River Health appeals to me because the practice environment provides the independence I look for as a physician,” said Dr. Zheng. “I also feel supported by amazing peers in a well-equipped facility. Having a CT scanner and access to laboratory services 24 hours a day are great advantages for rural physicians.”

VanSlyke agrees the people and facilities help BRH stand out, and notes that what attracts physicians to the region extends beyond the hospital walls. 

“No matter where you live in this area, you’re either a few minutes away from pristine wilderness, or living in it,” she said. “At the same time, there is an impressive amount of amenities and activities, and some of the friendliest people you will meet.” 

Zheng, who counts cross-country skiing among the firsts she experienced during her placement at BRH, agrees the area offers a lot of unique experiences nearby.  

“I saw people ice fishing last winter, and I hope I get the chance to try it,” she added. “My husband and I look forward to meeting new people and enjoying new experiences.”

Dr. Brian McPherson, Chief of Staff at Blanche River Health, looks forward to welcoming Dr. Zheng back to Blanche River Health. 

“I am grateful Dr. Zheng was drawn back to the area, and I know BRH staff and patients will give her a warm reception back to our community,” he said.  

A Physician Recruitment and Retention Committee was formed last year, with municipal, business and community representatives, together with physicians, the Kirkland and District Family Health Team, Blanche River Health and the Blanche River Health Foundation, working together as a team to attract physicians to our area.  

Blanche River Health is a 74-bed hospital corporation with two sites serving the North Eastern Ontario communities of Englehart (26 beds) and Kirkland Lake (48 beds) as well as residents in surrounding areas. Our mission is to make health care work for you. BRH values people and continuous improvement and we demonstrate this through accountability, respect, and courage to excel.