The BC government has released a report that examines the progress and challenges within our primary care system.
This report is the first of two that will be released, aimed at providing insight into the state of primary care and discuss future health-care strategies.
Outlined are key investments made since the launch of the Primary Care Strategy in 2018, and the subsequent gains in primary care access.
“Since 2018, our goal has been to ensure that more people in BC are connected to the care they need, when and where they need it,” said Josie Osborne, BC Minister of Health.
“This report is an important first step in our work to make the most of existing resources, identify ongoing challenges and better plan for the future.”
According to the report, nearly 750,000 BC residents have gained access to a primary care provider over the last seven years.
As of June this year, around 76% of residents now have a long-term care provider.
“The transparency and detail in this report mark an important step forward for B.C.’s health-care system – and it’s just the beginning,” said Jeremy Valeriote, MLA for West Vancouver-Sea to Sky and BC Greens interim leader.
“From this common understanding, health-care experts, policymakers, patients and the public can now discuss evidence-based recommendations to improve health-care access across the province.
Valeriote added that the second phase, expected in the fall of this year, of the report will build on this work by incorporating expert advice for steps on how they can meet their commitment.
Particularly on how they address remaining gaps in the development and sustainability of community health centres.
The Province has thus far committed more than $672 (up $93 million from the previous fiscal year) million for 2025/2026, and aims to expand initiatives.
Initiatives include primary care networks, urgent and primary care centres, community health centres, First Nations primary care centres, and more.
If you wish to read the full report, you can do so here.
