Stawell Regional Health has solved its doctor shortage issue, with a doctor now available for urgent care.

The health service had announced on Wednesday night a doctor shortage was expected from 8am Thursday to 8am Friday.

“We are very aware of the impact that a reduced medical capacity has on the community and we go to extensive lengths to avoid this happening,” Stawell Regional Health chief executive Libby Fifis said.

“Our recent recruitment efforts have resulted in the appointment of a new GP along with two new registrars who will be based at Stawell Medical Clinic in the new year.”

Earlier

Stawell Regional Health will experience another short-term and unplanned doctor shortage from Thursday until Friday morning.

A notice shared on Stawell Regional Health’s Facebook page explained there will be a “reduction in medical capacity” from 8am on Thursday December 20 to 8am on Friday December 21.

“Despite our best efforts, Stawell Regional Health will not have a doctor available to attend urgent care during this time,” the notice read.

“If you have a medical emergency please contact 000.

“We apologise for any inconvenience that this might cause.”

There have been two similar incidents in the last few months.