Whereas residents in rural areas face significant challenges in accessing timely and quality health care due to long travel distances, difficult terrain, and adverse weather conditions, further exacerbated by the lack of robust public transit options in rural areas; And whereas ensuring equitable access to health care requires strategic investments in transportation infrastructure, enhanced regional transit services, and collaboration between the provincial government, local health authorities, local governments, and community organizations to develop tailored solutions for rural communities: Therefore be it resolved that UBCM petition the Province of British Columbia to prioritize the improvement of health care transportation infrastructure in rural areas by: 1. Providing funding and support for a comprehensive regional transit system tailored to the unique needs of rural communities, including inter-community transit links that facilitate access to health services; and 2. Working collaboratively with local health authorities, local governments, and community organizations to develop and implement strategies that ensure equitable and reliable access to medical care for all residents.
