“A number of businesses have cited concerns regarding staff relocating and commuting from areas where access to a family physician can be obtained,” said chamber president Andrew Lake. “This raises broad implications for the economy of our region.”
In an effort to address the community’s concerns, the Truro and Colchester Chamber of Commerce is hosting a lunch and learn session Jan. 27.
In December, Lake met with Janet Knox, CEO of the Nova Scotia Health Authority, as well as Dr. Nicole Boutilier, executive medical director, northern zone, to share the business community’s concerns.
“We’ve learned that the health authority is aware of the barrier in the community, with plans in place to navigate the issue,” said Lake. “Health care is undergoing a fundamental change in an effort to provide better access and sustainable delivery of services to citizens of Nova Scotia.”
Lake said significant investments have been made to attract people to the area, including construction of state-of-the-art facilities like the Rath Eastlink Community Center and the Colchester East Hants Health Centre.
These facilities, and other assets in the area, he said, are showcased by employers to attract staff.
“Access to a family physician is a critical element to a sustainable and vibrant economy,” said Lake.
The lunch will serve to provide up-to-date information on the health authority’s efforts to recruit physicians to the area. It is being held Wednesday, Jan. 27, at noon at the Best Western Glengarry featuring special guests Dr. Boutilier and Cheryl Northcott, executive director, operations, northern zone.
The event is sponsored by Village Family PharmChoice, Bible Hill. Tickets are $15 plus HST for members and $20 plus HST for non-members.
For more information or to reserve a seat, call the chamber office at 902-895-6328 or email [email protected].
