Families that are new to Okotoks may have a hard time finding a physician.

According to the Calgary and Area's Primary Care Network's website there's a shortage of doctors in Okotoks. There's only one clinic listed on the site in town with a doctor that's accepting new patients and that's Papillon Medical.

Tanya Thorn, Sheep River Health Trust Representative and Okotoks Town Councillor, says this shortage isn't new to the area.

"Family docs is something that we've always struggled with in Okotoks, well I think most rural communities struggle with, so anytime we can get another one is a good thing and to have them accepting patients is great."

Thorn says the issue is always on Council's radar.

"We do have an Okotoks Physician Attraction Committee which has representatives from council, Mayor Robertson sits on that and then some docs from the region, that do a lot of different things trying to make sure the docs out there, whether it's new graduates or other doctors in other locations, know about Okotoks and what's available."

Thorn says in a region that's growing the need for doctors goes beyond serving current residents and being able to address future needs as well.