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BC Town Builds Homes to Save ER
28 Nov
Summary
- Modular housing for health-care workers is being built in Oliver.
- The town's emergency room faced 30 closures this past year.
- New housing aims to attract staff and stabilize vital services.
In an effort to combat frequent service disruptions, the town of Oliver, British Columbia, is investing in modular housing designed to attract and retain vital health-care professionals. The South Okanagan General Hospital, serving approximately 5,000 residents and nearby communities, has suffered 30 emergency room closures this year, forcing patients to travel considerable distances for care.
These new modular units, situated near Sunnybank Centre, will accommodate four individuals and are scheduled for completion by March 2026. Officials believe this housing solution will make Oliver a more appealing destination for healthcare workers, whether they are relocating permanently or serving on temporary assignments.
While this proactive measure is celebrated, stakeholders acknowledge it is a partial solution. The South Okanagan Division of Family Practice emphasizes the ongoing need for enhanced rural physician incentives and improved work-life balance to ensure the long-term viability of essential healthcare services in the region.
