A document outlining plans for the future of health care in Sooke is now available on the District’s website.
Sooke Community Health Service Planning takes an in-depth look at long-term goals and priorities for the District. Topics covered include the report’s background and context, the BC Ministry of Health’s strategic direction, pertinent data and the results of stakeholder consultation, much of which was gathered during an open house in June.
The 10-page report also takes a look at the next steps in terms of Sooke’s growth, with consideration given to the District’s expanding population and diverse health care needs. Improved access to primary care and specialized services as well as diagnostics were priorities identified by community stakeholders, and will be the focus for ongoing collaborative work.
One of the Ministry of Health goals is to establish more access to primary health care for Sooke residents to reduce reliance on emergency services.
Sooke Mayor Maja Tait said she wants to continue to build upon Sooke’s existing health care, while defining what services are needed most in the community.
“I want to bring more professionals in to Sooke to suit needs that are specific to our demographic,” Tait said. “The challenge now is that we don’t have enough community doctors. We want to take a more preventative approach, and have more patients seen more regularly.”
Anyone with feedback from the report, concerns about local health care issues or patient’s stories to share is invited to email Tait at mtait@sooke.ca. For a look at the report, go to sooke.ca/health.