(From Connexion Newsletter Fall/Winter 2023)

The last few years have been full of change — from the COVID-19 pandemic and wildfires to the development of Primary Care Networks (PCN) and introduction of the new Longitudinal Family Physician payment model.

While we collectively faced many challenges, the relationships that were established and now sustained are invaluable. We now collaborate across the system to innovate, implement, and iterate together.

To say that I am excited to join the Division as the new Executive Director is an understatement. I am passionate about improving access for patients. I am passionate about supporting members. I am passionate about removing barriers to enable system collaboration and innovation. I am passionate about primary care.

In the coming months, we will receive approval of our PCN Service Plan, which means that we will have access to funding for many new clinical resources, including physicians, nurse practitioners, and allied health professionals in the Thompson Region. Recruitment is a challenge across the province. We warmly welcome new members, and their families, to the community by supporting them to make meaningful connections and participate in system change initiatives. We will continue to collaborate at regional and provincial levels to address the root causes of issues, while also working to keep members in community long-term through a multitude of retention initiatives.

The primary care landscape is evolving and seeing much needed change. I am grateful to work with our members, a passionate and dedicated board of directors, and a talented team. I am optimistic about the future of primary care and am excited to lead the way through this transformation in our region in support of our members and the communities we serve.
— Katherine Brown