THEMES

F. PRIMARY HEALTH CARE

Challenges:

• Development of a clear definition of what integrated Primary Health Care would be on Gabriola, and what benefits might accrue to Islanders

• Determination of whether Islanders need for an integrated care facility – or just an urgent care facility.

• Development of an inventory of what services are currently available on and off the island, and communication of that information to Islanders

• Identification of health risks to Gabriolans and conversion of those risks to action points

• Cost of transportation to off-island programs

• Integration of volunteers and avoidance of volunteer burnout.

• Recruit and retain Health Care providers

Opportunities:

• Existence of a number of volunteer groups now on the Island

• Primary Health Care now a focus of the Province and VIHA

• Some BC Communities have model that might provide guidance (North Vancouver?)

Suggested solutions

• Integration of health care groups and health related services of other groups on the Island that might not be initially be perceived to be part of the health care community, such as those developing seniors gardens, walking trails, churches, etc. Volunteer programs lead/coordinated by a Community nurse

• Information developed and posted on the internet

• Awareness, communication of Primary Health Care services