Island Health is pleased to welcome two new physicians to the Port Hardy Primary Health Care Centre. Dr. Ramiz S. Alhadi and Dr. Hadi Awad Hmoud each bring experience and expertise to the community. Both physicians will also be working in the Port Hardy Hospital emergency department.
Dr. Alhadi and Dr. Hmoud are currently accepting new patients. Residents of Port Hardy and surrounding areas can schedule appointments by calling the Port Hardy Primary Care Centre (PHCC) at 250-902-6008. Same day appointments may be available.
A graduate of the University of Basrah College of Medicine in Iraq, Dr. Alhadi has been practicing medicine since 2017. He joined the team in Port Hardy through the provincial Practice Ready Assessment program, designed specifically for physicians with independent practice experience, ensuring a seamless transition into the Canadian health care system.
Dr. Ramiz S. Alhadi, Physician
Dr. Alhadi emphasized the importance of a holistic perspective in his approach to patient care, drawing from his extensive experience in emergency medicine and trauma recovery. "My approach has always been comprehensive, focusing not only on the patient's current complaint but also on understanding the whole picture," he explained. “You cannot treat the complaint without treating the cause, and to find the cause, you need to get the full picture.”
Originally from a large city in Iraq, Dr. Alhadi has embraced the calm and adventurous lifestyle of Port Hardy. He’s appreciative of the sense of community and the slower pace of life, which allows him to focus on his patients' well-being.
"I'm excited to be part of the team that's breathing new life into the health care system here in Port Hardy," he said. "It's a great feeling to know that I'm helping to make health care services stronger and better for the community."
In his spare time, Dr. Alhadi enjoys staying active by playing soccer, tennis, squash, and working out. As a self-proclaimed "big car guy," he also finds joy in exploring his passion for automobiles.
Dr. Hmoud is a seasoned family physician with over 30 years of experience. Practicing medicine since 1988, Dr. Hmoud brings a wealth of knowledge in primary care, emergency medicine, and surgical expertise to the team. His global perspective, having worked in Iraq, Yemen, Denmark, and Canada, further enhances his ability to serve the diverse needs of the community.
Dr. Hadi Awad Hmoud, Physician
This is not Dr. Hmoud's first time on North Vancouver Island. His wife, also a physician, completed her residency in Port Alice. "Having spent time in Port Hardy before, I already had a sense of the community's warmth and resilience," he said. "I'm grateful for the opportunity to serve this community once again."
After getting situated and meeting his new colleagues and patients at Port Hardy Hospital, Dr. Hmoud shared his positive first impressions. "The warm welcome from the staff and residents has been truly heartwarming, and I'm eager to work hand in hand with my colleagues to provide the best possible care to our patients," he said.
When not caring for patients, Dr. Hmoud enjoys hiking and taking in the beautiful North Vancouver Island scenery.
The arrival of Dr. Alhadi and Dr. Hmoud follows the addition of Dr. Sinan Alkhaleeli to the community in November. "I observed that many people are happy about having us here," Dr. Alhadi said, noting the warm reception they have received from residents.
Jodi Wright, Primary Care Coordinator, said the team is delighted to welcome Dr. Alhadi and Dr. Hmoud to Port Hardy. “Their addition to the team not only significantly increases access to physician care, but their diverse experiences and dedication will also elevate the quality of health care services we provide."
Wright also commended their seamless integration into the collaborative, team-based care approach, working alongside nurse practitioners, nurses, social workers, and medical office assistants.
Ian Wood, North Vancouver Island Clinical Services Director, echoed this sentiment. "The arrival of these two skilled physicians is a testament to our commitment to improving access to healthcare in the region. We look forward to working alongside them to deliver exceptional care to our patients."