‘Trump’s loss is B.C.’s gain’: Eby says province succeeding in recruiting nurses, doctors

The strain on B.C.’s health-care system may soon be getting some reprieve.

B.C. Premier David Eby and Minister of Health Josie Osborne provided an update on recruiting United States-trained nurses, doctors, and other allied health professionals in Victoria Monday afternoon.

Four billion dollars was set aside earlier this year in the provincial budget for health care, which included hiring more staff. Eby says the province cut application wait times from four months to a matter of days for nurses last month.

“Since that early April implementation date, we have seen some significant impacts. Applications from U.S.-trained nurses to British Columbia are up 127 per cent,” said Eby.

He says 117 nurses have applied since then, and 113 have been granted registrations.

The province adds that since announcing its coordinated recruitment campaign in March, 413 nurses, 133 nurse practitioners, 573 doctors, and 39 allied health professionals from the U.S. have expressed an interest in coming to work in the province.

The premier says B.C. offers a commitment to evidence-based science, respect for reproductive rights, and the chance to care for people regardless of income, when the U.S. cannot.

“You will be valued. Your principles will be respected, and you will have the opportunity to provide care to people not based on how much they earn, but based on the level of care that they need. You will be part of building healthy communities in the best place on Earth, and you’re very welcome here,” Eby appealed to American health care workers Monday.

“President Trump’s loss is British Columbia’s gain.”

The province’s health-care system has been seemingly struggling for months, with staff shortages causing many emergency departments across B.C. to temporarily close their doors.

Eby says another update will follow soon about B.C.’s plan to attract doctors, specifically.

In early June, the province will be launching a targeted marketing campaign in parts of the U.S. with the highest interest in moving to B.C., including in Washington, Oregon, and select cities in California.

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