New doctors welcomed at chamber event
by August 30, 2011 10:19 pm 72 views
story and photos by Joel Rafkin
[email protected]
About 175 doctors, business people, community leaders and citizens gathered at the Donald W. Reynolds Cancer Support House for the 5th Annual New Physician’s Reception on Tuesday (Aug. 30) evening.
The event was a social mix and mingle gathering aimed at bringing more health care professionals to Fort Smith and retention of existing health care providers. The Fort Smith Regional Chamber of Commerce created a health care council in 2007 recognizing that healthcare plays a key role in improving quality of place and economic development. A 2007 survey of area physicians by the council found that networking opportunities for health care professionals were lacking and the New Physician’s Reception was created in response to that concern.
"It’s a nice opportunity for the physicians to come out and meet the chamber members; see what’s out there. We’ve got wonderful members; we have wonderful physicians in our community and it just kind of helps those new physicians see what a great community that Fort Smith is and makes them want to stay," said Daelene Brown, special events director for the Fort Smith Regional Chamber of Commerce.
Brown said there were 100 invitations sent out to new physicians. More than half responded and even more attended. The event was free to physicians and $35 for chamber of commerce members. All others paid $50. Golden Corral catered the hors d’oeuvres, In Good Spirits provided the wine and beer and Expressions Flowers created the centerpiece. Many corporate sponsors also contributed funds to the event that will be used to support future chamber of commerce functions.
Brown said there are more new physicians in the community this year than in previous years.
Five door prizes were donated by In Good Spirits. The physicians were eligible for two wine gift baskets while others in attendance had a chance at mixed merchandise baskets. Business cards were drawn at the conclusion of the event to determine the winners.
