News release

Doors Open at New Family Health Centre in Bridgewater

Health and Wellness

A new health centre in Bridgewater will make it easier for people in the area to get the care they need.

The Bridgewater and Area Family Health Centre held an official opening today, April 11. Premier Stephen McNeil announced operational funding of up to $240,000 a year to support the clinic as it recruits doctors and other health care providers.

"This project is a model of care and collaboration," said Premier McNeil. "The province recognizes the vision and contribution of community organizations, business and industry and the health care community, to make this health centre happen. We support your vision."

The health centre is an addition to the Medical Arts Building on Glen Allen Drive in Bridgewater. Family doctors, nurse practitioners, and other health care providers are now seeing patients. The goal is to recruit three new family doctors to the area over the next few years.

"The family doctors who have been working in this area have been doing an amazing job," said Premier McNeil. "Yet many people need better access to health care.

"The government is investing more to attract and keep physicians, to encourage new medical graduates to remain in our province. We are working toward the goal of ensuring every Nova Scotian has a family doctor. This team-based health centre will help with recruitment."

The centre has a diversified health-care team, electronic medical records, room to see patients safely and privately, and teaching space. There are also areas for visiting professionals in areas such as geriatric medicine, mental health and addictions, midwifery, social work and other fields.

"Bridgewater has seen a gradual reduction in the number of practicing family doctors to a point where recruiting is a priority to support the community," said Dr. Tim Riding, head of family medicine at South Shore Health. "With the development of collaborative models of care, the building of this clinic is hoped to help with the recruitment of new doctors to the area."

Department of Health and Wellness, South Shore Health, the Bridgewater Development Association, and other partners have been working to address the need for family doctors and to create a more sustainable long-term solution for health care.

Ida Scott, the association's manager, said the health centre is a rewarding example of what strong partnerships can achieve.

"Now we are better placed to provide health care for our communities, as well as welcome and attract the contributions of new residents," Ms. Scott said.

Once fully staffed, the centre could provide health care to more than 8,000 patients and families.