The District of Kitimat has introduced a new program in hopes of attracting more healthcare workers to town.
As part of a healthcare recruitment strategy started last year, the program offers up to $20,000 to professionals who take on local jobs or join a practice in Kitimat. The money is meant to help fill immediate vacancies while also encouraging long-term retention.
Applications are open and will be looked at starting Sept. 15. The incentive also applies retroactively to anyone who’s moved to Kitimat for work since January 1 of this year.
Mayor Phil Germuth said the district wants to give workers more reasons to come to the community.
“The district has been a long-time supporter of the healthcare sector in Kitimat,” he said. “We recognize the challenges in recruiting healthcare professionals and want to give them even more reasons to make Kitimat their home.”
A new Health Recruitment Coordinator has been working with local healthcare employers and groups to design the incentive. A Healthcare Working Group will keep working on more support, including housing help, training opportunities, and welcome packages.
Rob Goffinet, Chair of the Kitimat Health Advocacy Group, said the launch is an important step.
“This program addresses key gaps in healthcare recruitment locally,” Goffinet explained. “The Working Group’s input helped ensure the incentive supports professionals who are new to our community, and we’re pleased to see this program launched.”
The district said more measures will roll out later this year to help attract and keep healthcare workers in Kitimat.
