Projects Underway to Attract Healthcare Workers to Cape Breton
Dalhousie University family medicine residents took part in a retreat organized by Cape Breton South Recruiting for Health last year to socialize and learn about requirements for opening a medical practice. (Contributed)
A small Cape Breton community on the south coast is launching several new projects this year to attract and retain healthcare workers, through the Office of Healthcare Professionals Recruitment (OHPR) Community Fund.
The Cape Breton South Recruiting for Health group in L’Ardoise is receiving $45,230 to develop a transportation strategy for the village, a business of medicine retreat – where family physician residents learn about setting up a practice – an awards and recognition event, newcomer socials and organized site visits for potential hires.
“With community input and organization, healthcare attraction will continue to be a priority in the area and this funding makes key plans and ideas a reality,” said Trevor Boudreau, MLA for Richmond, on behalf of Michelle Thompson, Minister responsible for the Office of Healthcare Professionals Recruitment.
In total, 30 organizations across the province will receive support through the OHPR Community Fund this year. More details will be announced in the coming weeks.
The fund, established in 2022, is an action item in Action for Health, the government’s plan to improve healthcare. It supports community healthcare recruitment and retention initiatives organized by local non-profit organizations, charitable community groups, cultural organizations, member-based organizations and boards, municipalities and chambers of commerce.
Quotes:
“Our organization is excited to carry out the projects that are made possible with this funding. Planning is underway to show off all that our beautiful region has to offer, and we are putting in place the tools to ensure our healthcare workers succeed and feel rewarded.”
— Gina MacDonald, Program Director, Cape Breton South Recruiting for Health
Quick Facts:
- the OHPR Community Fund supported 28 community-led recruitment and retention initiatives in 2022-23, investing more than $1.5 million into a range of projects, including healthcare worker recognition events, online support tools, marketing videos and even a community garden
Additional Resources:
OHPR Community Fund news releases: https://news.novascotia.ca/search/all?field_topics=287
Fund guidelines and details are available at: https://novascotia.ca/ohpr-community-fund
Action for Health: https://novascotia.ca/actionforhealth/
Mandate letter of the Minister of Health and Wellness and Minister responsible for the Office of Healthcare Professionals Recruitment: https://novascotia.ca/exec_council/letters-2021/ministerial-mandate-letter-2021-DHW.pdf