Are you a family medicine physician? Join Snowy Owl Medical Clinic in 2025
New opportunities with the Physician Comprehensive Care Model (PCCM)
On December 19, 2024, the Government of Alberta announced the Physician Comprehensive Care Model (PCCM), effective April 1, 2025. This long-awaited change enhances the competitiveness of full-scope family practice in Alberta, bringing the province in line with similar models already adopted elsewhere in Canada. While challenges remain, the PCCM marks a significant step forward for family physicians in Alberta.
Why Choose Snowy Owl Medical Clinic?
Located in the heart of Carstairs, Alberta, Snowy Owl Medical Clinic is more than just a family practice and pediatric clinic—it's a place where physicians, staff, and the community come together to make healthcare personal and impactful. Owned and operated by pediatrician Dr. Michael From, we are deeply invested in creating a supportive, collaborative, and patient-focused environment with physicians and clinicians that genuinely care about their team and rural community.
Here's what makes us stand out
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Excellence and integrity: Professionalism, high-quality patient care, and a strong sense of ethics (or "fostering a supportive environment") are at the core of everything we do.
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Collaborative culture: We're not part of a franchise; we're a close-knit team that understands the day-to-day realities of practice and the importance of meaningful, personalized care.
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Cutting-edge tools: Our clinic uses Med-Access Telus EMR and is exploring AI scribes to simplify documentation and enhance your workflow.
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Flexible work hours: No mandatory evenings or weekends.
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Teaching opportunities: We're proud to help shape the next generation of rural physicians. Two of our physicians preceptor rural clerkship students from the University of Calgary.
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Amazing staff: Our experienced, motivated team work hard to ensure your day runs seamlessly, so you can focus on what matters most—your patients.
We know that choosing a clinic is about more than finding a workplace—it's about finding the right fit for your career, lifestyle, and personal values. At Snowy Owl Medical Clinic, we believe in supporting the whole person behind the physician. Whether you're balancing family commitments, navigating unexpected personal challenges, or simply looking for a team that has your back, we're here to help you thrive.
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We invite you to visit us, meet our team, and take a tour of our clinic to experience our culture first-hand. Our clinicians often call Snowy Owl Medical Clinic "the best clinic in Alberta," and we think you'll see why. From assisting with clinical decision-making to ensuring seamless referral processes, we're dedicated to helping you thrive—both professionally and personally.
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If you share our commitment to compassionate care and patient-first practices, we would love to hear from you.
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Email us at jointheteam@snowyowlclinic.com to learn more or schedule a visit.​
About Carstairs
Carstairs is one of Alberta's fastest-growing rural communities, located just 35 minutes north of Calgary. With a population of over 5,000, it offers the charm of small-town living with access to big-city amenities. Here's what you'll find:
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Family-friendly amenities: Top-rated schools, a championship golf course, a hockey arena, dance studios, a gymnastics club, and more.
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Thriving community: A mix of agricultural roots and modern growth, with many residents commuting to Calgary for work.
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Convenience: Grocery stores, restaurants, and local businesses to meet all your needs.
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Natural beauty: Stunning Alberta landscapes and outdoor activities right on your doorstep.
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Carstairs is a wonderful place to build a career and raise a family. Whether you're new to Alberta or looking for a fresh start, you'll find a welcoming community here.
Canola Field South of Carstairs - Photo by Dr. Michael From
FAQ / Specifics
International Medical Graduates (IMG)
At this time, we require all physicians to hold a full, independent license in Canada. Unfortunately, we do not have sponsorship positions available.
Full-time or part-time practice?
We are currently looking for up to two full-time family medicine physicians. Full-time would be equivalent to 4-5 days per week, with a patient panel of 1,500 or more, which would qualify for the full Physician Comprehensive Care Model (PCCM) incentive amount.
What is the overhead rate?
Our clinic operates on a 27% overhead rate for full-time physicians, meaning physicians retain 73% of their revenue. Clinics in Alberta are funded almost exclusively through physician revenue, as there are no subsidies from Alberta Health or Alberta Health Services. We prioritize transparency and sustainability in our overhead model, ensuring that both the clinic and its physicians can thrive. While other clinics may have higher or lower rates, we believe this split provides the right balance of support for your practice and workflow without incurring unnecessary costs.
Hospital privileges?
If you are interested in expanding your practice to include emergency room shifts, hospital rounds, or long-term care, the Didsbury Hospital is just 10 minutes down the road. Credentialing is required through the hospital, but we are happy to accommodate your clinic and schedule to support these opportunities.
Do I have to live in Carstairs?
While Carstairs offers a charming, family-friendly community, you can choose to live wherever suits you best. Some of our staff and physicians commute from Calgary (approximately 45 minutes counter-rush-hour). Airdrie, a city of 80,000 people just 25 minutes away, offers another alternative if you are looking to live in a bigger city. Of note, the Rural Remote Northern Stipend of around $4000/year is offered for those who live and work in Carstairs.