Over the past several months, our Network has been deeply engaged in the work of reshaping primary care in British Columbia. Rural, remote, and small-town communities continue to tell us what is not working. They also continue to show us what is possible when community voices are included from the start and when care teams are supported to deliver the services people actually need.
This fall, a new momentum has emerged. The second report under the Cooperation and Responsible Government Accord (CARGA) will be released soon, and it will include a clear set of recommendations for improving primary care across the province. Our Network has been contributing directly to this work through the Primary Care Working Group convened by MLA Rob Botterell. This group includes leaders from community health, clinical practice, research, policy, and lived experience. Together we have developed a draft model for primary care that is now ready for public disclosure.
A Model Built on Collaboration and Lived Experience
The model created by the working group reflects a strong consensus across diverse perspectives. It was built intentionally to support both rural and urban communities and to ensure that people receive timely, team-based care close to home. It outlines:
- Community governance and accountability structures
- Integrated, team-based care designed around patient and community needs
- Clear pathways for access, attachment, navigation, and urgent care
- A transparent and sustainable funding approach
- Infrastructure supports such as IT, virtual care, data, and quality systems
This model is not the final word. Instead, it is a strong foundation we will continue to build on as more voices contribute to the conversation.
Learning From Success in BC and Across Canada
The work happening at Luther Court in Victoria continues to show what is possible when true community-governed primary care is supported and resourced. Their operational model demonstrates the results of integrated teams, strong community leadership, and a commitment to wellness across the lifespan. Their experience has informed our work and will continue to guide the development of the provincial model.
In the new year, our Implementation Committee will also hear directly from partners in Ontario who will present their own models and lessons learned from community health centres across that province. Ontario’s long history of community-governed primary care provides valuable insight into what works, what needs to change, and what structures help the model succeed.
This combination of BC-based learning and interprovincial experience is strengthening the work ahead.
What Comes Next
As we move into 2026, we will continue gathering information from stakeholders across British Columbia. We will also invite public feedback on the model as part of our commitment to transparency and collaboration. The ideas shared by communities, clinicians, researchers, and partners will shape the next stage of development before our Network finalizes its initial position paper later next year.
Today, we are pleased to share the primary care model developed through the CARGA working group. This document has now been released publicly and is available for communities, organizations, and individuals who want to understand the foundation for the work ahead.
Read the model here:
