While the idea for a medical clinic took root in the Caring Circle almost two years ago, the decision was taken this year to let it grow in its own part of the garden.
In April the organization was registered as a not-for-profit society under the Societies Act of B.C. with the purpose of creating and operating a community-owned Health Centre. Its aim is to provide ongoing primary medical and limited urgent care along with ancillary services in an integrated, multi-disciplinary setting. The paramount advantages of such a model are two-fold: it provides a more collaborative and supportive environment for health care professionals; and it serves to attract and retain good health care providers. Our residents benefit on both counts.
Readers might like to know that:
membership in the Society is free, and is open to any
resident of Bowen over 18 years of age;
our Municipal Council is behind the project;
we intend to achieve our aim(as they did on Gabriola) with zero increase in taxation;
we are presently updating our business plan which, may include an interim clinic;
the only family physician currently living and practising on Bowen is actively engaged in the project;
we are close to committing to a site for the Centre;
we have expressions of interest from physicians who would consider a practice on Bowen if we can demonstrate a serious commitment to proceed with a Clinic.
We have a small core of very industrious board members and a number of great resource people on our advisory group, but we need many more people who can spare just a little time to take on tasks such as sending e-mails or making phone calls, or doing a bit of behind the scenes research. While the idea of a Health Centre is sprouting nicely, it needs the application a lot more fertilizer to bring it to fruition.
Current Board members/contacts are Bud Massender, Jaye Routledge,Colleen O’Neil, Bruce Wallace, Paul Stratford and Audrey Campbell.
