Cities Take Direct Action on Doctor Shortage

COLWOOD, BC – As family doctor shortages worsen across Canada, some municipalities are taking unprecedented steps to ensure residents have access to primary care. The city of Colwood, British Columbia, has garnered national attention for its innovative approach: directly employing family doctors.

Colwood's Pioneering Model

Colwood Mayor Doug Kobayashi, an aeronautical engineer, spearheaded the initiative after becoming frustrated with the lack of available doctors in the rapidly growing community of 25,000. The city now offers family doctors a salary of approximately $280,000 per year, alongside a full benefits package including a pension estimated at over $2.5 million over 30 years, medical insurance, parental leave, vacation coverage, and administrative support. The city bills the province for services rendered, covering clinic costs and overhead.

Three doctors have already signed contracts with Colwood, relocating from the U.S., Europe, and Ontario. Dr. Cassandra Stiller, who moved from Ontario, highlighted the appeal of the model, stating it provides financial stability and allows her to focus on patient care. “Basically show up to work, your patients are ready to see you,” she said. The clinic aims to serve 1,250 patients per doctor.

Orillia, Ontario Follows Suit

Inspired by Colwood’s success, Orillia, Ontario, is also attempting to recruit eight family doctors for its 34,000 residents, one-third of whom currently lack a family physician. While Orillia is pursuing a similar model, it faces challenges securing upfront funding for a clinic space, estimated at $1.5 million.

Provincial Response and Expert Commentary

British Columbia’s Ministry of Health has expressed encouragement at the community-led solutions, despite initial skepticism and payment system hurdles. Health policy expert Steven Lewis from Simon Fraser University argues that cities are being forced to act due to provincial inaction. “I would be going back to the province and saying wait a minute who’s responsible for this anyway and we are only doing this because you didn’t do your job,” he stated.

Residents of Colwood have expressed relief and gratitude for the new clinic, with many having gone years without a family doctor. The city aims to connect 10,000 residents with family doctors within five years. Mayor Kobayashi acknowledges the shift in mindset required for this approach, stating, “Sometimes the hardest part isn't policy, it's mindset.”