Nurse practitioner-led clinic to open in Tillsonburg

Jeff Helsdon, Editor

Oxford MPP Ernie Hardeman announced a $5.2 million investment in health care in Oxford County that will connect 13,020 more people to primary care and see a new Tillsonburg clinic.

Announced Tuesday morning in front of two empty units in Northgate Plaza where a permanent nurse practitioner-led clinic will be established by the Ingersoll Nurse Practitioner-Led Clinic, the announcement was heralded as one of the most significant announcements in health care in Tillsonburg. There are thousands of people in Tillsonburg without a primary health care provider.

“Access to primary care is the foundation of a strong and reliable health care system,” Hardeman said. “This investment will connect more than 13,000 residents to the care they need, when and where they need it. By strengthening primary care, we are not only helping people stay healthier, but also reducing pressure on emergency departments and hospitals. This is an important step toward building a more connected, accessible and patient-focused health care system for families across Oxford County.”

“This investment is a significant step forward for primary care in Oxford County,” said Stephanie Nevins, executive director of the Ingersoll Nurse Practitioner-Led Clinic. “It will allow the NPLC to expand access in Ingersoll and bring a new nurse practitioner-led clinic to Tillsonburg, connecting more people to timely, team-based care close to home. We’re proud to work alongside our community and system partners to support the growing needs of our population, and we’re grateful for the province’s support in making this vision a reality.”

Funding for the expansion was through the latest call for proposals under the province’s Primary Care Action Plan.

For Tillsonburg Mayor Deb Gilvesy, the announcement was the culmination of work she has been doing since being elected in 2017. She gave credit to Hardeman for his support of the new clinic.

“Many may not see the work that happens behind the scenes, but I can say firsthand that Ernie’s dedication and advocacy have played a critical role in securing this funding,” she said.

Construction will start in the unit in the near future to turn it into patient rooms, waiting rooms, and offices. Nevins said the goal is to have the clinic open in the fall. The clinic will have four nurse practitioners, RNs, RPNs, possibly a social worker, and administrative staff.

The clinic is aimed at people who do not have a primary health care provider only. Those looking for a primary health care provider are asked not to phone the existing Ingersoll Nurse Practitioner-Led Clinic sites, but to watch its website for more information on registration and to register through the province’s Health Care Connect.

Watch next week’s Tillsonburg Post and tillsonburgpost.com for more in-depth information and photos of this late-breaking event.