SDG Counties Seeks Funding to Address Rural Healthcare Shortage

SDG Counties has applied for funding to enhance rural healthcare recruitment in response to a significant shortage of primary care providers affecting over 21,000 residents in the region. The issue is expected to worsen as eight doctors and nurse practitioners are set to retire within the next three years, creating an urgent need for new healthcare professionals.

Data from the Great River Ontario Health Team, sourced from Ontario Health, reveals that as of March 2025, South Glengarry has the highest percentage of residents without a primary caregiver, at 15 percent. North Glengarry follows closely with 14 percent, while North Dundas has the lowest rate at 6 percent. This disparity indicates that many residents in North Dundas are fortunate to have access to healthcare services, unlike their counterparts in other areas.

To combat this growing concern, SDG Counties is collaborating with the Great River Ontario Health Team to launch the “Great River, Great Future – Rural Healthcare Workforce Recruitment Initiative.” This initiative aims to develop a recruitment campaign targeting healthcare professionals in Eastern Ontario, addressing the critical shortage faced by the community.

The Counties have budgeted $136,000 over two years for this project. If the funding application is successful, the initiative could receive up to $68,000 to support its recruitment efforts. Additionally, the Counties have secured funds and in-kind support from several partners, including the City of Cornwall, Carefor Health & Community Services, the municipality of Russell, and the Township of South Stormont, all dedicated to attracting primary healthcare providers to the area.

Research indicates that a minimum of 39 additional primary care providers is necessary to fulfill the current healthcare needs in the region. Local municipalities and hospitals are hopeful that physicians considering relocation from Quebec due to recent legislative changes, particularly Bill 2, might be drawn to opportunities in SDG Counties.

As rural areas like Cornwall, Russell, and Akwesasne grapple with healthcare accessibility challenges, this initiative represents a proactive step towards securing essential medical services for their communities. The outcome of the funding application will play a crucial role in determining the future of primary healthcare in the region.