“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has.” – Margaret Mead
Access to healthcare isn’t just a necessity. It’s a cornerstone of a thriving community and economy. Recognizing the pressing need for healthcare workers in Greater Victoria, the South Island Division of Family Practice (SIDFP) plays a pivotal role in transforming the healthcare ecosystem.
You might not know SIDFP’s work, but your community has likely felt the organization’s impact. SIDFP is vital for regionwide recruitment and retention of healthcare workers. Together, South Island Division members work to transform patient access to local primary care, increase local physicians’ influence on healthcare delivery and policy and create a community for family physicians.
This collaborative and innovative healthcare method strengthens family practice and patient care in South Island communities. Niki Bouchard, Lead for Family Physician Recruitment and Retention explores how SIDFP’s “red carpet” approach creates community connections and support for physicians.
Q+A with Niki Bouchard, Family Physician Recruitment & Retention Program Lead South Island Division of Family Practice
What approach or innovation sets your organization apart in today’s economic landscape?
The South Island Division of Family Practice provides locum and permanent opportunities for family physicians. Our “red carpet” approach of providing community connections and support for physicians and their families goes beyond simple recruiting.
What motivated your organization to join South Island Prosperity Partnership. How does this align with your vision for impact?
Making community connections is a tried-and-true strategy. When people are fully connected to their community and engaged, they will find a sense of personal and professional satisfaction. Their satisfaction increases exponentially when their family is fully supported in the community. Access to healthcare is always an imperative. Fully supporting and engaging family physicians and their families in every aspect of their lives increases recruitment and retention efforts to build out our healthcare system.
“The beauty of Vancouver Island doesn’t require selling: the warmth of the community, the work-life balance, the year-round recreation, and access to outdoor activities says it all. We are many communities working together for the success of the whole.“
Niki Bouchard
In light of current global challenges, what strategies do you believe are essential for cultivating thriving businesses for Greater Victoria?
The South Island has been embracing “greener” initiatives with the further municipal development of bicycle lanes. In addition to a fantastic transit system, many professionals are choosing to bike, bus or walk to work. Our communities have access to a large pool of resources while still maintaining a “connected small town feel”. These factors along with the mild climate and work -life balance practiced in the South Island allows for community members to “work and live” not just “work to live”.
With global competition for talent and investment intensifying, what unique advantages does Greater Victoria offer to stand out?
The beauty of Vancouver Island doesn’t require selling: the warmth of the community, the work-life balance, the year-round recreation, and access to outdoor activities says it all. We are many communities working together for the success of the whole.
Looking at the hurdles facing our region, which challenge is your organization most dedicated to addressing?
Increasing the number of family physicians thereby improving access to primary care.
What upcoming initiatives or projects within your organization are you most enthusiastic about for impacting the economy?
We continue recruitment efforts through attending medical conferences across Canada, community capacity-building and developing connections. We will always provide our “red carpet” service to physicians and their families interested in relocating to our area.
Is there a particular mantra, individual, or reading fuelling your drive to make a difference in what you or your organization does?
The community has been vocal about the need for more family physicians and improving access to primary care. Access to a family physician is a determinant for mental and physical health. Together, we are better. “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has.” Margaret Mead
Fast-forward two decades: how do you picture Southern Vancouver Island? Describe the transformations that will take place for our economic future.
Our recruitment efforts, community capacity building and connections, the expanding international medical graduate program, the retention of family medicine residency graduates, and the ever-evolving new payment model will provide enough family physicians to support our growing population.
Find out more about the organization’s work at the South Island Division of Family Practice’s website.
