The health board which covers western Newfoundland has recruited 20 new doctors, but officials said there's still a shortage of physicians in the region.

Western Health officials have hired 11 family doctors, two radiologists and a pathologist, but the board still needs pediatricians and other specialists.

Lorraine Mitchell, the director of regional medical services for Western Health, said while new doctors — especially those going to smaller communities on the west coast — are concerned about workload, their workload will ease once all the vacancies are filled.

"If we can get full complement, yes the lifestyle is good," said Mitchell. "While we have shortages it would be a bit of a strain on a physician, but they do know, I think, that we are making every effort to fill the other positions."

Mitchell added that Western Health is working with a company in Ireland to recruit doctors from that country.