Island Health says it has entered into a 10-year lease for a new clinic space in Ucluelet.
The building, which is still under construction, is located at 2094 Peninsula Rd.
Island Health says a development permit for the project was approved on Oct. 23, and that the building is expected to open in summer 2025.
Once it does open, the building will be a “hub” for integrated healthcare, putting several services under one roof, according to the health authority.
“The people living in Ucluelet and surrounding areas will have improved contact, collaboration and communications with their health-care providers through this new health centre,” said B.C. Health Minister Adrian Dix in a release Thursday.
The building will host mental health and substance use services, community health services, and include a lab.
It will also make it easier for patients to connect with other programs and services, according to Island Health.
Moving forward, Island Health hopes to add more primary care providers to the centre, such as doctors or nurse practitioners.
“One of the challenges we face when working to expand health-care services in remote regions is finding appropriate clinical space to give our patients, clients, staff, and care providers the best experience possible,” said Island Health board chair Leah Hollins.
“This long-term lease agreement should provide certainty to people living in the region and our partners that we are committed to growing primary care services through this centre for years to come.”
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Adam Chan
