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New Medical Clinic to Address Healthcare Shortage in Qualicum Beach, Opening September 2026
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A new primary care facility, the primrose Medical centre, is slated to open in Qualicum Beach in September 2026, promising to significantly improve access to healthcare for residents of the region.The project represents a major step toward resolving the critical shortage of family physicians impacting the Mid Island area.
Addressing a Critical Need for Primary Care
after a year of intensive planning, collaboration, and physician recruitment, the Mid Island Health Alliance (MIHA) has secured four physicians to launch the clinic, with plans to expand the team to between six and ten doctors. This expansion will allow the Primrose Medical Centre (PMC) to serve at least 10,000 patients, according to a recent announcement.
“This medical centre represents a transformative leap forward for our community,” stated Susanne Cunningham, chair of MIHA. “The Primrose Medical Centre is not simply a building – it is the future backbone of healthcare delivery in Qualicum Beach.”
A Thorough Approach to Community Health
The PMC is envisioned as more than just a general practice facility. It will be developed as a scalable and future-focused primary care hub, offering a range of specialized services to address unmet community needs. These will include geriatric care,women’s health and prenatal care,mental health services,and care for youth and adolescents.
To further enhance access to specialized care,the clinic will host rotating specialist physicians,reducing wait times and improving local availability. Dr. kelly Hadfield, currently serving as physician consultant and recruitment lead, will transition into the role of incoming medical director, continuing her leadership of the Qualicum Beach Medical Clinic and Qualicum First Nation Medical Walk-In Clinic. Her expertise has been crucial in shaping the clinic’s operational strategy and community care vision.
Community Support Fuels the Project
The advancement of the PMC has been significantly bolstered by community support, especially the generous contributions of Paul Connor and his wife, Gill. Their vision and financial backing were instrumental in bringing the project to fruition. This support is coupled with ongoing partnerships with the Nanaimo and District Hospital Foundation and various community leaders.
The clinic also aims to foster long-term resilience within the region by supporting medical learners, residents, and physicians relocating from across Canada and internationally.
Investing in the Future of Healthcare
MIHA is actively seeking philanthropic contributions from residents, businesses, and supporters to cover construction, equipment, and start-up costs. Donations can be made directly through the MIHA website at www.midislandhealthalliance.ca.
“Community input – and community investment – is essential,” Cunningham emphasized. “This health centre belongs to the people of Oceanside, and together we can build a healthcare home that supports everyone for generations.” She added that the PMC represents a 30-year investment in the region’s health,prioritizing patients,supporting physicians,and reflecting the values of the community.
The Primrose Medical Centre will be located on the ground floor at 661 Primrose St., in the former BMO building, situated under Bay
