There are many good models emerging where communities are coming up with innovative approaches to attract and retain health care staff. I like the approach being taken by Quesnel where they not only help the new health professional become familiar with services and welcome in the community but also provide housing solutions. In Quesnel they maintain furnished accommodation so that health professionals can move in and become familiar with the community before setting up their own residents. Not only are they creating a need service sought by health professional they are doing it on a cost recovery basis.

They also work on issues to make sure that if a health professional is coming to the community with a partner that partner is supported in successfully finding suitable employment. This is often critical with retention. These activities can be undertaken with minimal cost to the taxpayers which is also key in exploring approaches.