To further its commitment to physician and healthcare professional settlement and retention, the Health Services Foundation has presented to the Town of Bridgewater for support around its temporary housing concept.

On Monday, May 1, Foundation Board Chair Nick Saunders, Foundation Vice Chair Janice Tanner-Ernst and Foundation Physician Settlement and Retention Coordinator Martha Marchand presented to Bridgewater’s Town Council, asking for a letter of support to the Province of Nova Scotia to have a parcel of land off Nafthal Drive severed. This ask has been made to support the Foundation’s idea around temporary housing for medical professionals and learners coming to South Shore Regional Hospital.

Saunders say currently the concept is just a big idea. “We are in the very preliminary stages of discussions. We have been talking, specifically with the Town of Bridgewater, as this piece of land is within town limits and the Province needs commitment from one municipal partner for the severing of the land.”

“The Health Services Foundation is always looking for opportunities to support physician and healthcare professional recruitment, settlement and retention. There are no financial or time commitments to this idea as until we have land and the Health Services Foundation’s Board of Directors votes on it, there is no solid plan. We are very grateful to have Foundation donors who support our physician recruitment, settlement and retention work. We will be connecting with and looking for support from other local community groups when/if the project has more legs.”

The concept is to a provide a temporary housing option for doctors, healthcare professionals and medical learners transitioning to the area who need time to find a permanent living space. This is continuing the Foundation’s commitment to help remove barriers, making the recruitment process for Nova Scotia Health easier.

An official request letter for the support of the Town of Bridgewater will go before council for approval on Monday, May 8.

Media Contact:

Alison Clements

Manager, Strategic Engagement – Health Services Foundation of the South Shore

902-521-9522