Project Overview
A Transformative Collaboration
Following nearly two years of planning and partnership-building, the Island Community Clinic Society (ICCS) and the Lady Minto Hospital Foundation (LMHF) are launching Phase 1 of a major initiative to expand primary care capacity on Salt Spring Island.
In response to the critical shortage of family doctors and primary care providers, this project will transform the existing Salt Spring Island Health Centre into a modern, non-profit, team-based community health centre, significantly increasing access to primary care while adding new health services.
Why This Matters
Half of Salt Spring residents currently lack a local family doctor, and too many rely on Lady Minto Hospital’s Emergency Department for non-emergency care.
The numbers tell the story:
- ~2,000 residents travel off-island for basic care
- ~4,000 have no regular primary-care provider
- Local emergency staff face growing pressure
Expanding primary care capacity is critical to restoring balance — ensuring timely access, reducing hospital strain, and attracting new practitioners to live and work here.
The most significant constraint is the current lack of adequate physical space for new practitioners. Additionally, the traditional model of rural family practice places considerable administrative burdens on physicians, requiring them to manage tasks such as human resources, accounting, and equipment procurement. This model is a significant departure from what family physicians are seeking in their careers today. Furthermore, the increasing “scope creep” into areas like social work erodes physicians’ capacity to focus on practicing family medicine and primary care, which is their core expertise and training. By strategically expanding our physical space, integrating multidisciplinary care teams, and implementing an improved practice model, our clinic has the potential to become a flagship for primary care innovation and excellence across British Columbia.
A Message from the Lady Minto Hospital Foundation
Everyone deserves primary care. Prevention and early support aren’t luxuries — they are the foundation of a healthy community. Expanding primary care isn’t just about improving the health system, it’s about supporting our neighbours, friends, and families in real and tangible ways.
Our goal is simple: the right care, available when people need it most.
How You Can Help
Our Goal
- Total Project Target: $3.5 million
- Already Raised: $600,000 through LMHF’s Primary Care Fund
Your donation will help move the project from planning to shovel-ready status — funding design, permitting, and governance needed to unlock future construction and recruitment.
Every dollar brings us closer to a healthier, more resilient Salt Spring Island.
Donate Today
You can donate with your Visa or MasterCard using the form below! Alternative ways to donate include:
- Sending an e-Transfer to accounts@ladymintofoundation.com.
- Dropping off a cheque or cash to our office, located at 5A – 121 McPhillips Ave.
- Giving us a call at 250-931-1888.