The city of Vernon, with a population of approximately 47,000 people, is facing a significant shortage of family doctors, with almost half of its residents lacking access to primary care. This issue has been exacerbated by the closure of Vernon’s only walk-in clinic last fall, leaving many individuals, including seniors, maternity and obstetric patients, and the general population without a family physician. Community Futures, a non-profit organization that typically focuses on economic development, has recognized the importance of addressing this health care gap in order to support the overall well-being of the community.
Leigha Horsfield, the executive director of Community Futures, emphasized the close connection between health and the economy, stating that a healthy economy cannot exist without a strong health care infrastructure. The organization is working on developing a proposal to submit to the Health Ministry for the creation of a community-based health clinic in Vernon. This clinic would aim to provide longitudinal care and connect individuals who are currently without a family physician to primary care providers. The proposal is still in the early stages of development, and the funding needed to establish the clinic has not yet been determined.
The envisioned community health clinic in Vernon would offer a variety of allied health services and serve as a multi-use space in collaboration with existing health services in the community. Community input and a community advisory board would be crucial in ensuring that the services offered at the clinic continually meet the needs of the population. The Ministry of Health has acknowledged the work being done by the community of Vernon to establish the clinic and anticipates receiving the proposal on June 3. The approval process for such initiatives varies depending on specific community needs and existing primary care investments being made by the Ministry and its partners.
Community Futures’ initiative to establish a community-based health clinic in Vernon is a response to the pressing need for increased access to primary care in the city. By addressing the shortage of family doctors and providing longitudinal care to underserved populations, the clinic has the potential to improve health outcomes and overall well-being in the community. The collaboration with existing health services and community input will ensure that the clinic effectively meets the needs of Vernon residents. The Ministry of Health’s support and consideration of the proposal demonstrate a commitment to addressing health care gaps and promoting health equity in the region.
