Dr. Deon Erasmus (left) accepts the 2019 RhPAP Rhapsody Physician Award from Rural Health Professions Action Plan (RhPAP) representative Rob Warren of Sundre. Erasmus was the guest of honour during an event at the Provost Recreation and Culture Centre on Friday evening, November 1. The crowd showed the physician a standing ovation; and after accepting the custom-made award he responded that “Health is a team sport.” He has been “blessed to be involved in health care . . . to be able to be with people at their saddest times when they’re losing loved ones . . .” He added he “cannot do this by myself,” acknowledging others who help. Erasmus says the common denominator to his medical practice is “the patient,” as being the “most important centrepiece.” The crowd also heard from Mike Dennehy, Town of Provost mayor; Allan Murray, M.D. of Provost No. 52 reeve; Lana Clark, Alberta Health Services Provost Health Centre site manager; and Sherilea Scheidt, Primary Care Network nurse manager. A video featured a profile of Erasmus. The event was hosted by RhPAP, Town of Provost, M.D. of Provost, the Provost and District Chamber of Commerce and Provost and District Health Services Foundation. According to RhPAP, the Rural Health Professions Action Plan focuses on ‘supporting the efforts of rural Albertans to maintain an accessible health workforce close to home.’ H'ordeuvres were enjoyed throughout the evening. ©Provost News Photo.
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