The University of Manitoba's Faculty of Health Science has announced the expansion its Brandon satellite program.

In 2012, the U of M began training family physicians in Brandon through a two-year family medicine residency program.

Last month a graduation ceremony was held for four family physicians, all of whom are staying to practice in the Westman region.

Charles Penner, is the associate dean for the Brandon satellite program.

"Recruiting students with rural roots or an interest in rural practice to pursue the U of M Family Medicine program in Brandon has been extremely successful and satisfying with the retention of all four graduates this year to practice in Brandon and surrounding areas," says Penner. "They’ve embraced the challenges and rewards of clinical practice in a smaller community. Patients will no doubt benefit from the addition of our newest family physicians."

A new program this year includes a third-year training program in emergency medicine, while the other new program introduced is an anesthesia residency training program.