Sent on May 21, 2021 to every patient who is currently listed under Dr. Ruby Klassen's family practice according to the Ministry of Health.
While you may see Dr. Steve more than Dr. Ruby, the MOH recognizes you as a patient of Dr. Ruby. If you saw Dr. Ruby more than Dr. Steve, you may not have received the letter, but you are more than welcome to view and respond to this letter as if it were sent to you.
Re: Notification of Closure of Dr. Ruby's Family Practice
The following is intended to bring you up to date with a number of changes that have been in the works for a while. This has not been easy to write.
From Dr. Ruby:
This letter is to formally let you know of changes in my medical career which affects my relationship with you. In September 2019 I began providing care in three nursing homes. Initially this was to cover for another physician, but it has become a long-term position. In light of recent events, I will be continuing in the work I am doing at Lakehead Manor and Pinewood Court nursing home.
I regret to inform you that I will no longer be returning as your family physician. It has been my privilege to have been involved with your health care. I have notified the Ministry of Health that I will be closing my family practice effective June 1st, 2021.
From Dr. Steve:
We are all very sad to lose Dr. Ruby from the clinic. As many of you know, I have been pursuing further formal training in family therapy. I plan to continue to devote more time to this skill set. We had brought on a nurse practitioner, Kelsey, who worked very well with us. Unfortunately, current government funding models don’t allow us to use the full scope of her skills. She has taken a 1-year contract elsewhere, but we are hoping that we can eventually get her back!
On my own, I will not be able to cover both patient groups. I will continue to provide interim coverage for Dr. Ruby's patients until September 1st, 2021.
Next steps for Dr. Ruby's patients:
Option 1: If you would like Dr. Steve to consider enrolling you into his family practice, please contact the office. This offer remains open for existing Dr. Ruby patients until September 1, 2021.
Option 2: Add your name to our wait list when we have a new primary care clinician. We are recruiting for family physicians and nurse practitioners, and in the past we have had success with recruiting medical students and residents after a clinical teaching block with us at the office. If you would simply like to be added to our waiting list, please contact the office.
Option 3: If you wish to seek out another family doctor, please call 1-800-445-1822 or visit www.ontario.ca/healthcareconnect to find a provider who is accepting new patients in our community. Contact the office once you have a physician, if you would like copies of your chart.
We are humbled by your trust in us over these many years. We wish you the very best.
Sincerely,
Dr. Ruby A. Klassen & Dr. Steve B. Klassen