If there are not enough substitute members to replace the full members who have ceased to hold office for any reason whatsoever, the departmental council may hold additional elections within six months of the first or second vacancy that could not be filled by a substitute member. In this case, the term of office of the member thus elected is that remaining until the date on which the term of office of the member he replaces would have expired.
In the case of doctors and dental surgeons, the member thus elected shall be of the same sex as the member he replaces.
At the time of each renewal, a supplementary election is held to fill the vacant seats.