In British Columbia’s West Kootenay region, the City of Grand Forks has initiated a one-year trial initiative using local tax funding to attract and retain doctors, a responsibility typically overseen by the provincial healthcare system. Grand Forks has allocated $125,000 to assist in covering fixed operational expenses at the local medical facility, such as rent, utilities, and licensing fees.
The decision by Grand Forks comes amid the ongoing challenge faced by many communities in British Columbia in ensuring access to regular primary care for residents. Despite provincial endeavors to connect patients with family physicians, accessibility gaps persist, particularly in rural and smaller areas, prompting local governments to seek solutions.
Mayor Everett Baker expressed that municipalities should not be responsible for this task, but current circumstances necessitate their involvement. Grand Forks, a community of around 4,100 individuals, has witnessed the departure of multiple doctors in recent years, with the local clinic facing the risk of being left with a limited number of aging physicians.
The pilot program, developed in collaboration with local doctors, aims to mitigate the financial risks associated with operating a medical practice in a rural setting. Dr. Mark Szynkaruk, a family physician who collaborated on the program, highlighted that fixed costs at the clinic remain constant regardless of the number of doctors, making it less appealing for new practitioners when physician numbers decline.
Szynkaruk emphasized the challenge of attracting new doctors, particularly those early in their careers burdened by student debt and wary of additional financial risks. The consequence of inaction, he noted, would be diminished access to healthcare, impacting patient outcomes and adding pressure on emergency services.
The issues faced by Grand Forks echo a broader concern across British Columbia, with initiatives like Colwood’s decision to employ some doctors as municipal staff aiming to address the shortage. A 2025 resolution by the Union of B.C. Municipalities highlighted the chronic struggles rural and remote communities face in recruiting and retaining primary care physicians, urging the provincial government to reassess recent programs exacerbating shortages in smaller areas.
In Grand Forks, early signs of progress have been seen, with Dr. Gary Sandhar joining the local clinic and taking on patients from a departed physician. The city anticipates two more medical practitioners considering a move to Grand Forks soon. If the clinic achieves full staffing, it could cater to up to 7,500 patients, encompassing residents from Grand Forks and neighboring regions.
Mayor Baker mentioned that the success of the pilot program will be evaluated after a year to decide on its continuation or adjustment, with the ultimate aim of ensuring every Grand Forks resident has access to a family doctor.