Locum program launched to strengthen maternity care in rural B.C.

A new locum program in B.C. will help rural family physicians who provide eligible core surgical obstetrics services to secure subsidized leave periods. The goal of the Rural Family Practice Enhanced Surgical Skills OB Locum Program is to strengthen maternity care in rural parts of B.C., and help pregnant patients continue to receive care in their local communities. The pilot program was announced in July by Joint Standing Committee on Rural Issues (JSC), comprised of representatives from Doctors of BC, the Ministry of Health, and other health authorities, and runs until March 31, 2025. The physician leave periods can be for purposes including vacation or continued medical education. Unlike other rural locum programs, the subsidized days are awarded to the community, rather than to specific physicians. Eligible rural communities will be approved for up to 35 days of locum coverage per year for rural family practitioners with obstetrical skills. Locum assignments must be a minimum of two days and locums will be paid a guaranteed minimum daily rate of $1,000 plus travel time honorarium, as outlined in the program policy. There is no fee charged to the host physician for using the program. Eligible physicians need to be credentialed by their health authority as “FP Enhanced Surgical Skills” with a sub-category specific to “Obstetrics.” To find out more about the program, visit the Rural Family Practice Enhanced Surgical Skills OB Locum Program Policy website. The JSC advises the B.C. government and Doctors of BC on matters pertaining to rural medical practice. Its goal is to enhance the availability and stability of physician services in rural and remote areas of British Columbia by addressing the unique and challenging circumstances faced by physicians. Read: Small-town docs get $7.4 million for advanced skills training

Locum program launched to strengthen maternity care in rural B.C.

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