Central Island Division of Family Practice

04/17/2026

I am so happy to see the next step forward in establishing an Indigenous health care centre in Port Alberni, as the Port Alberni Friendship Cente has recently secured a building and plans to open next year!

As the Minister of Health, I believe in a health care system that listens, that reflects the people it serves, and that is built in true partnership with communities. When communities lead, outcomes improve for everyone, and I am so proud to support that work here at home. This new centre reflects a deep commitment to community, cultural connection, and continuity of care, ensuring that people in the Alberni Valley feel supported, respected and confident in accessing the health services they need.

More information can be found here but copying the link without the X: Xhttps://hashilthsa.com/news/2026-04-14/new-indigenous-community-health-centre-open-uptown-port-alberni

03/27/2026

Help us make walking, cycling, and accessible routes better across Port Alberni!

Our latest Transportation Master Plan survey wants to know which walking, biking, and accessibility improvements are most important and what types of facilities you support.

Review the draft plans and provide feedback here: letsconnectpa.ca/tmp

03/27/2026

Have your questions answered, hear the latest on local health care, and share what matters most to you by joining the Island Health Board of Directors on April 1 from 6 to 7:30 p.m. in Cowichan or live on YouTube.

Find more info: islandhealth.ca/boardforum

03/17/2026

There’s a new non-profit society in Bowser, the Lighthouse Family Health Society, working hard to lay the foundation for a primary care clinic right in the heart of Bowser — one where nurse practitioners and family physicians can provide care for local residents closer to home.

I was thrilled to meet with Owen Price and Chriss Gates (two of the society’s directors), Ron Ryvers, Evelyn Clark and Sadie Mack from the Central Island Division of Family Practice , Electoral Area Director (and Regional District of Nanaimo Chair) Stuart McLean, and Dr. Josh Greggain, who’s been providing advice and support to the society. They gave me a great overview of how the society came together, the relationships they’re building, and the vision they have for re-establishing primary care right in Bowser.

As the local MLA, I’m incredibly encouraged by this initiative. As BC’s Health Minister, I’m seeing similar action all over the province — more and more communities are getting directly involved in finding community-led solutions for primary health care. That might mean helping secure space for clinics, working with local governments on zoning, supporting recruitment efforts, partnering with Divisions of Family Practice, or bringing together volunteers and local champions to help create welcoming conditions for health-care providers to live and work.

That kind of community leadership makes a real difference. When local knowledge, strong partnerships, and a shared commitment to improving access to care come together, it creates the foundation for sustainable solutions. I’m excited to see the momentum building in Bowser and look forward to continuing to support this work as it moves forward!

01/30/2026

01/30/2026

We stand with Tseshaht First Nation and all Indigenous people affected by the recent hateful vandalism in Port Alberni. Wearing orange reflects our commitment to respect, understanding, and a community where all people feel safe, valued, and supported.

Join us in standing against hate, today and every day.

01/13/2026