In the past three years, 3 doctors have left their practices in Armstrong and only 1 part time, semi retired physician has agreed to come to the community. Retiring physicians have advertised for replacements to no avail. Seven doctors were referred by Health Match BC during the last year as possible candidates for vacant practices but none located here.

A key factor in attracting and retaining doctors, especially recent graduates, is a group practice which provides peer support, professional backup and coverage for personal and educational absences. A group practice must accommodate at least 4 physicians to be viable.

A second important factor is the physician's ability to address the complex health needs of an ever aging population. Providing space within a practice to accommodate visiting allied health professionals promotes a team approach and coordination of services, resulting in more comprehensive care and improved ability to focus on and manage chronic health conditions.

A third factor is access to an electronic medical record system which saves valuable time, facilitates peer support and enables immediate access to test results and records in the larger health system. Specialists may also be consulted without travel or time delay.

The Haugen Community Healthcare Society was formed because no government or other agency was prepared or able to establish and finance the facilities necessary for a group practice. The Society developed a plan to provide a community health centre large enough to accommodate 4 physicians and visiting allied health professionals. These professionals will include, among others, nurses committed by the Health Authority for integrated health networking and 2 physicians providing part time specialty services, one for diabetic care and the other for developmental disability and fetal alcohol syndrome.

By taking the lead in establishing a health centre the Society has kept one physician from closing his practice and has attracted 2 new physicians, all of whom will jointly recruit the fourth partner for the group practice. Together with the other physicians in town, the new community health centre will retain the integrity of local healthcare.

Funds raised by the Society are used to provide the building, the renovations and the furnishings and equipment necessary for the health centre. No funds go to the doctors, who bill MSP and third party payers like WCB and ICBC for the services they provide. The doctors will pay rent to cover building related operating expenses such as insurance and maintenance and repair costs. They will also pay their own practice expenses such as salaries, telephone, utilities and medical and office supplies, and they will install a computer network and integrated medical record system.

The health centre will serve residents of Armstrong, Spallumcheen and surrounding area. The centre will be developed in 3,700 square feet on the second floor of Pharmacy Plaza in an area formerly occupied by Okanagan College. Monarch Trucking, the most recent tenant, has graciously relocated their offices to accommodate the health centre plans. This location offers suitable space on a timely basis and on preferred terms, including financing for renovation costs. The Society has a 5 year renewable lease and an option to purchase at fair market value as determined by independent objective appraisal. The property will be purchased as soon as sufficient funds are raised, thereby ensuring an ongoing community asset.