Press Release: Mid Island Health Alliance Celebrates Community Support and Honours Oceanside Physicians and Nurse Practitioners
Updated: 2 days ago
QUALICUM BEACH, BC — May 27, 2026 — The Mid Island Health Alliance (MIHA) Recruitment and Retention Committee is proud to host an Oceanside Physician and Nurse Practitioner Appreciation Dinner on Tuesday, May 27, 2026, at Rotary Park in Qualicum Beach.
The event will bring together physicians, nurse practitioners, community leaders, local businesses, and residents in celebration of the healthcare professionals who provide exceptional care to Oceanside communities every day. The evening will recognize the dedication, compassion, and commitment of local primary care providers while also celebrating the remarkable community support behind the future Primrose Medical Centre.
MIHA also announced a significant fundraising milestone, having now raised $900,000 toward its $1.2 million goal to build and equip the Primrose Medical Centre — a vital project aimed at strengthening physician recruitment and improving access to healthcare across the region.
“This event is about gratitude and community,” said Lynn Bury of MIHA. “We are incredibly fortunate to have physicians and nurse practitioners who care so deeply about our residents.”
“At the same time, the overwhelming support we have received for the Primrose Medical Centre demonstrates how committed this community is to building a stronger healthcare future together. Reaching $900,000 is an extraordinary milestone and reflects the generosity and vision of Oceanside residents and supporters,” added Marilyn Harvey-Heinz of MIHA.
Mayor Teunis Westbroek will attend the evening and praised the efforts of the community and healthcare providers.
“In a community like Qualicum Beach, the care and dedication shown by our doctors and nurse practitioners is felt far beyond clinic walls. They care for our families, support our seniors, and are there during our lives most critical times,” said Mayor Westbroek. “On behalf of council and staff, I would like to express our sincere gratitude for having these medical professionals in our community.”
Barney Ellis-Perry, CEO of the Nanaimo & District Hospital Foundation, also acknowledged the impact of the initiative.
“Family doctors play a foundational role in our healthcare system,” said Barney Ellis-Perry. “Helping recruit family doctors is not only the right thing to do to improve healthcare in central Vancouver Island; it also goes a long way to relieving the intense pressure that the absence of family doctors places on the Oceanside Urgent Care Centre and the emergency room at Nanaimo Regional Medical Centre.”
The appreciation dinner has been made possible through the generosity of local businesses, organizations, sponsors, and volunteers who have contributed food, services, and financial support to honour local healthcare professionals.
