SOUND OFF: Delivering on the promise of better, accessible primary care in B.C.”
EVERY PERSON IN BRITISH COLUMBIA deserves high-quality, team-based health care close to home, no matter where they live. As Minister of Health, ensuring that people can access timely, reliable primary care is a top priority. We know that individuals and families thrive when they have regular access to a trusted healthcare provider who understands their needs and history.
That care often starts with a family doctor or nurse practitioner. But many people also need care that goes beyond what a single provider can offer, whether from a social worker, physiotherapist, mental health counsellor or community health worker. When services are disconnected or scattered across multiple locations, it adds unnecessary stress and makes it harder for people to get the help they need.
Every community in B.C. is different and health care must reflect those differences. That’s why we are working in close partnership with communities, Indigenous leaders and health organizations to design solutions that respond to local needs and priorities.
One example of this is the new STEPS Community Health Centre on the North Shore in Kamloops. Created through extensive collaboration between local health organizations, the City of Kamloops and local First Nations, this centre is designed to support women, children, Two-Spirit, transgender and gender-diverse individuals, and Indigenous community members with culturally safe, team-based, comprehensive care for people.
