September 15, 2020 | People living in the East Kootenays will have better access to primary health care with the creation and implementation of a primary care network in the region.
“Through our primary care strategy, we are transforming the way people get the health care they need now and for generations to come with the establishments of networks of primary care providers to bring additional resources and strengthen health care supports in regions throughout B.C.,” said Adrian Dix, Minister of Health. “As a result, our strategy is reflective and responsive to the primary health care needs of the people they serve, including in East Kootenay, where we are establishing a new primary care network.”
The East Kootenay primary care network has launched and is beginning to hire new health-care providers. Over the next four years, people in the region will benefit from approximately 60 full-time equivalent health-care providers, who will work as part of the network. The Province will provide approximately $9.1 million in annual funding to the network by the fourth year, as net new positions are added and patients are attached.
The East Kootenay primary care network is a partnership between the Ministry of Health, Interior Health, East Kootenay Division of Family Practice, the Ktunaxa Nation and Shuswap Indian Band.