January, 2009 – Oakes, ND -- Oakes Community Hospital Board of Directors and Catholic Health Initiatives have begun the process of recruiting two physicians and two nurse practitioners to be employed by the hospital, announced John Osse, interim administrator at Oakes Community Hospital. Osse held employee forms January 23 announcing the news, “this is in addition to the recruitment of a Certified Nurse Anesthetist” he said.

The hospital has signed a contract with a national recruiting firm who has implemented the search. According to Osse, once the physician and nurse practitioners are recruited, a new clinic will be developed in the hospital’s emergency / outpatient department until a temporary clinic can be created on the hospital campus. As the plans and financing are finalized a permanent clinic will be constructed attached to the hospital.

Osse pointed out the time frame will depend on how soon the hospital can recruit the people we need; and Oakes and surrounding communities will be asked to assist in the recruitment process. “It is important that physicians and their families get a feel for the community,” said Osse. “Community involvement is very important and impacts on the physicians decision to practice and live in Oakes.”

Rose Sell, chairperson Oakes Community Hospital Board said, “The addition of an additional clinic in Oakes will make the community even more attractive to potential business and future residents.”