Improving Access to Primary Healthcare

I believe every British Columbian should be able to access a family physician and primary healthcare if they wish to do so.

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Healthcare delivery is principally a provincial responsibility, but municipalities should not simply declare the doctor shortage someone else’s problem. Saanich has practical tools, local knowledge and partnership opportunities that can help create the conditions needed to attract family practitioners and expand primary care access.

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Create the Necessary Space

One of the major local barriers is the availability and cost of suitable clinic space. I support exploring density bonuses and other development incentives for projects that provide appropriately designed space for primary care clinics.

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Saanich should also consider partial or full property-tax exemptions for qualifying not-for-profit healthcare clinics when the public benefit is clearly demonstrated and protected through enforceable agreements.

Housing affordability, transportation, childcare and community amenities all influence whether healthcare professionals choose to live and work here. Municipal housing and economic development policies should recognize primary care as essential community infrastructure.

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Build Partnerships

I support investigating partnerships with not-for-profit organizations to establish community-focused primary care clinics in Saanich. Such arrangements would need to clearly define the responsibilities of Saanich, Island Health, the Province and the operating organization, but this model has already proven to be successful in other South Island municipalities.

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Ensure Results and Accountability

Before committing public funds or municipal assets to a project, Council should ensure a credible business case exists that identifies costs, partners, risks and patient capacity. If a project is approved, its progress should be tracked and publicly reported.

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Municipal action alone will not solve the province's physician shortage. However, by working strategically with healthcare providers and other governments, Saanich can play a role in addressing the issue and increasing quality of life for its residents.