The City of Surrey is taking direct action to combat its severe shortage of family doctors, announcing plans to open two municipally operated health clinics. The initiative, spearheaded by Mayor Brenda Locke, aims to provide residents with much-needed primary care access starting in 2025.
A Municipal Response to a Healthcare Crisis
Faced with a growing population and a critical lack of general practitioners, Surrey's municipal government is stepping into a space typically managed by the provincial health authority. The two new clinics represent a significant local investment in frontline healthcare, designed to alleviate pressure on hospital emergency rooms and walk-in clinics that are currently overwhelmed. This move underscores the city's proactive approach to a problem affecting communities across British Columbia and Canada.
Details and Expected Impact
While specific locations and the exact opening dates within 2025 are still being finalized, the commitment from the city council is clear. The model for these clinics is expected to involve a team-based approach, potentially incorporating nurse practitioners, registered nurses, and other health professionals alongside doctors to maximize the number of patients served. Mayor Brenda Locke framed the decision as a necessary intervention to ensure the well-being of Surrey's families, seniors, and vulnerable populations who struggle to find or retain a family physician.
Broader Context and Future Steps
Surrey's plan highlights a trend of municipalities exploring innovative solutions to fill gaps in the provincial healthcare system. The success of these clinics will depend on collaboration with the provincial government, Doctors of BC, and the recruitment of healthcare professionals. The announcement, made in December 2025, sets the stage for a year of development and partnership-building. If successful, this municipal model could serve as a blueprint for other Canadian cities grappling with similar primary care shortages, marking a potential shift in how healthcare delivery is supported at the local level.
