Access to Physicians Supports Rural Economic Development

Issue

Business growth in rural communities is directly impacted by access to physician care.

Background

The ability of rural residents to access health care provided by rural physicians is of great importance to Alberta’s economic recovery and long-term prosperity in the province.

With the growing concern of physicians leaving rural communities, residents of rural communities are at risk of losing much more than local medical care – reduced access to physician care also impacts businesses’ ability to attract skilled workers and grow which, in turn, impacts the vitality and sustainability of rural communities.

Our Recommendations

1. Recognize the economic and social impact physicians have on SMEs and communities when negotiating with physicians.
2. Create healthcare infrastructure that adequately supports the attraction and retention of physicians in rural Alberta communities to ensure an adequate level of physicians in rural communities.