In 2018, the Ministry of Health launched a transformational, team-based Primary Care Strategy aimed at improving access to high-quality, comprehensive, culturally safe, and person-centred primary care across British Columbia. Our goal has been to ensure that more people are connected to the care they need, when and where they need it.
Now, seven years into the implementation of this Strategy, we are enhancing our ongoing efforts to assess progress. The intent is to build on what we’ve learned to date to deepen our understanding of what’s working well and where further shifts are needed.
As part of our ongoing commitment to transparency and accountability, we are pleased to be working with the BC Green Party to enhance performance monitoring and evaluation of the primary care system during this government’s mandate as part of the Cooperation and Responsible Government Accord (CARGA). This important work will help us make the most of existing resources, identify ongoing challenges, and better plan for the future – all in pursuit of the shared goal of ensuring every British Columbian has the benefit of primary care services.
This report marks an important first step. It offers a high-level overview of system-level investments and highlights progress toward key objectives, including the number of British Columbians now attached to primary care services. This report will also begin to pinpoint areas for deeper exploration as we continue to look for new ways to support people n accessing services within their communities.
I look forward to continuing this work together – with health care providers, partners, and communities – to strengthen primary care across the province.
Sincerely,
Josie Osborne
Minister of Health