The water tower in Meaford. (image from Meaford council files)
Meaford Council has unanimously approved the establishment of a Family Physician Recruitment and Retention Incentive Program aimed at attracting more doctors to the community.
The Municipality of Meaford estimates that approximately 5,000 residents are currently without a family physician, while about 2,000 newer residents continue to rely on doctors in other communities.
The newly approved program will combine a previously endorsed low-interest loan initiative with a proposed rental assistance program for incoming physicians. The rental assistance plan would provide up to 50 per cent of monthly housing costs, capped at $1,500 per month, for a maximum of 12 months. Participating physicians would be required to establish their practice in Meaford and commit to remaining in the community for a period determined by Council.
While physician recruitment is a provincial responsibility, many municipalities have taken an active role in offering local incentives to remain competitive.
Council is also directing staff to launch a formal call to the community and stakeholders to help fund the program. The municipality would be able to issue charitable tax receipts for donations, allowing private-sector and not-for-profit partners to contribute directly to physician recruitment and retention efforts.
Municipal officials say improving access to family doctors is key to strengthening community well-being and supporting long-term growth.