CORNWALL, Ontario – Dr. Brent Patterson has returned to the area and is planning to set up his practice in Cornwall in a few years, after the completion of his residency at the Winchester District Memorial Hospital (WDMH).
“It’s already been very rewarding coming back to the area,” said Patterson. “Everyone is so friendly and it’s a nice place to live.”
Patterson, now 25, grew up in Williamstown. Following his four years of undergraduate schooling at McGill University, where he studied anatomy and cell biology, he attended the University of Toronto for his MD degree.
“I like family medicine because you get to see a variety of cases, and you get to see the same people over your entire career,” said Patterson. “It’s nice to get to know your patients that way.”
Patterson believes that he is the third person to get a medical scholarship from the City of Cornwall, as part of a return of service agreement. The scholarship program awards $25,000 annually, for up to six years to a qualified medical student. Once certified by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario, the physician must begin a family practice in Cornwall for at least five years.
The scholarship has been very helpful for Patterson.
“I think it’s absolutely something people should be thinking about,” said Patterson in regards to the City program. “Having the support from the City makes it a much more achievable goal and reduces the stress of finances.”
Patterson recognizes that the Cornwall area needs more family doctors and understands that a lot of doctors are looking for work.
“I’ve already met a lot of people who need family doctors,” said Patterson. “It would be very easy for them to set up their practice here.”
Although he has only started recently, Patterson is enjoying his time at the WDMH.
“There’s always lots to learn throughout your career, and there’s lots of great doctors here,” he said.
