By Vanessa Ybarra

Strong demand at North Shore Health and Science Centre

Feb 23, 2017 | 5:30 PM

KAMLOOPS — It’s the latest tool in the fight to solve the doctor shortage in the city, and so far, there’s been no shortage of demand at the new Health and Science Centre on the North Shore.

Unlike other clinics, the new centre is run as a referral program, with the goal of taking specialized cases and extra work off the backs of doctors.

What also makes the centre unique is who is working there.

A combination of nurse practitioners, social workers and others work together as a team to ensure timely and effective medical treatment for patients.

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According to Interior Health, around 200 people have accessed the primary care clinic since opening three weeks ago.”

“Things are going really well, “said Jason Giesbrecht with Interior Health. “We’ve been busy seeing clients from the North Shore and our clinicians have seen around 250 patient visits over the last few weeks so it’s been a very busy place.”

Four nurse practitioners, as well dietitians and social workers are currently working at the site providing complex care services for ailments ranging from diabetes and chronic lung conditions to mental health issues.

With construction on the centre’s lower level almost complete, Interior Health says the plan is to move primary care services to the first floor with the second floor focused on providing specialized-care group programs.

“The first floor will be ready to open on March 6th so we’re looking forward to that,” added Giesbrecht. “The four nurse practitioners that are currently working on the second floor will shift to the first floor and begin seeing patients. We’re right on schedule for the first floor, it’s moving along really well. Our teams’ been working double-time to try and meet the deadlines but we’re really excited that we’re on target.”

Giesbrecht says the centre’s lower level will include nine examination rooms.

The centre is open 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday to Saturday with a similar centre set to open in Northhills mall April 10th.