Primary Health Care Services Working Group BUILDING A HEALTHY COMMUNITY IN SOOKE

The Working Group Formed in December 2013, building on the work of the Mayor’s Advisory Panel on Community Health and Social Initiatives. One year term – aim to address specific gaps in the health care system in Sooke and surrounding areas. Membership: Former Mayor (Chair); Island Health, South Island Division of Family Practice, West Coast Family Medical Clinic, Sooke Family Resource Society, Sooke Region Community Health Initiative, Sooke Region Volunteer Centre.

Why a Working Group? Many factors contribute to the creation of a healthy community. The availability of accessible, high quality health services are one of these factors. The best health services are designed by community leaders, residents, and health care experts working together to ensure the best information is put to the best use by the best people. Mayor and Council have a vital role to play. How does Sooke fare in terms of health service accessibility and quality?

Shortage of Family Physicians

Good News 1 new family physician starting in June new physician taking over for a retiring physician.

Limited Availability of Diagnostic Services X-ray services are only offered 2 hours per week, twice weekly (9-11 a.m. on Wednesday and Thursday). People must travel to Langford. The 7 family physicians, and the community as a whole would like to see these services extended and improved. What about other diagnostic services, like ultrasound?

Housing and care for Seniors – more is needed. Approximately 3105, or 27% of the people in Sooke are 55+ (2011 Census). The population of Sooke 55 and above increased by 27% between 2006 and 2011, which is significantly higher than the general population growth rate of 18%. If this high rate of growth continues, seniors will make up almost 40% of the total population of Sooke in An Ayre Manor expansion, and other supported living options will be required in Sooke. Services for Seniors to support aging at home are required.

Other gaps and issues Funding of the Integrated Health Network, which is a team consisting of a nurse, social worker and dietician who work with local physicians is now certain, but these services are only available to Clinic patients. The health and mental health needs of youth are not well resourced. The way services have been delivered in the past is changing. Work will be undertaken by Island Health and community partners to redesign services to meet population needs. This presents an opportunity...

PHCSWG has made a start: Gained new access to physician recruitment programs through SIDFP, supported island wide recruitment navigator initiative, contributed to discussion about a local recruitment package. Advocated for X-ray services. Chair of PHCSWG took the lead, communicating with current owners (West Coast Medical Imaging). Have secured agreement for Sooke business plan, to be developed by SIDFP. Secured commitment from Island Health for 2 additional hospice beds.

PHCSWG has... Conducted needs assessment of Seniors who wish to continue living in their own homes, and made recommendations for service development. Secured grant from SIDFP for the above study. Secured UBCM grant: “Project name: Study of Support Needs of Sooke Seniors Grant amount: $8,400 Project details: The district will carry out a study to better understand the services and supports needed in the community that allow older adults to remain in their homes.”

PHCSWG has... Advocated for support for Integrated Health Network. Advocated for continuation of Rural Subsidy for Sooke Physicians. Fostered a new relationship with Island Health – Former Mayor established an important connection with the Island Health Board, Acting VP of Planning & Improvement, and VP Finance that had not existed in the past.

Benefit to community Significant tangible benefits to date. Creation of a high level multi-stakeholder group of advocates, planners and health service providers that can promote Sooke’s interests in the future. As an example, Working Group contributed to discussions involving CHI, the District of Sooke and Island Health that led to a $17,500 matching grant from Island Health to support CHI’s work.

Recommendation THAT THE COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE RECOMMEND THAT COUNCIL appoint a liaison to the Primary Health Care Services Working Group. Could take the form of a Select Committee ?? Areas to pursue in 2015:  Ensure Sooke’s needs are reflected in physician recruitment initiatives of Island Health and SIDFP.  Develop own physician recruitment package.  Work with SIDFP and other stakeholders on a business plan for Sooke Diagnostic Services.

Areas to pursue cont... Work with Island Health to support services for Sooke Seniors – residential and community based. Partner with Island Health to design community services that meet the needs of the residents of Sooke. Address gaps in the area of youth health care and mental health services. Maintain and strengthen link between the community and the stakeholders responsible for health care services.

Without the involvement of the Mayor and Council our effectiveness will be compromised.