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Local clinic bridging gaps in specialized dental care
A dental surgeon at Fernie’s Elk Valley Hospital has been making a significant impact since becoming part of the community’s health care team last year.
Dr. Gregory Allan was recruited to the community in November 2022. Since Dr. Allan arrived at Elk Valley Hospital, pediatric and adult dental procedures have significantly increased, with 180 procedures being completed over the 2023 calendar year.
At the hospital, Dr. Allan extends beyond traditional dental care by offering an operating room to treat patients under sedation. Established in 2018 with the purchase of specialized dental equipment, the dental team at Elk Valley Hospital has been committed to providing specialized care to children and adult patients, especially those who find it challenging to access regular dental services.
The team focuses on assisting individuals with dental anxiety, neurodiversity, physical disabilities, complex medical histories, and those belonging to vulnerable demographics.
With Dr. Allan’s move to the region, Interior Health aims to further expand this vital service, supporting not just the local community but surrounding areas as well. He can continue to grow this service locally to support all surrounding communities.
“Dr. Allan has been a great addition to our team here at Elk Valley Hospital, providing needed dental care to the community and the entire region. We are enthusiastic about his continued support for Elk Valley residents in the years ahead,” said Melissa Leslie, Interim Manager of Clinical Operations, Elk Valley Hospital.
This expansion of dental services in the Elk Valley has significantly reduced the need for residents to travel for dental care, often outside British Columbia to places like Lethbridge, Alberta.
“Joining Elk Valley Hospital has been a rewarding experience. It’s a privilege to work with such a dedicated anesthesia and nursing team. Our focus on providing safe sedation for dental procedures, especially for children, is an important aspect of our care. Taking over from Dr. Alastair Nicoll, who has been instrumental in advocating for quality dental care, is a significant responsibility. I aim to build on his contributions and continue to enhance our dental services, ensuring that Elk Valley Hospital remains a reliable resource for those in need of specialized dental care,” said Dr. Greg Allan MASc, DMD.
Dr. Allan provides a range of treatments at Elk Valley Hospital, including fillings and extractions under general anesthesia, catering to patients as young as three.
Family physicians and dentists wishing to refer patients can contact Dr. Allan directly by visiting his website at www.ferniedentist.ca.
Lead image: Left to right Dr. Greg Allan, Dr. Stephen Trebble, Melissa Fediuk, Kyla Patton, Christina Pukalla, Sophia Jackson-Kelso in the EVH OR. Interior Health photo
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