A Terrace-based nurse is calling for stronger measures to retain and recruit healthcare workers, as the ongoing nursing shortage continues to strain hospitals across northwestern B.C.
At this week’s Terrace city council meeting, Marley Emery, a nurse and representative of the BC Nurses Union (BCNU), described the situation as severe — noting that for every ten nurses recruited, nine are still leaving.
Emery urged local leaders to advocate for minimum nurse-to-patient ratios, a policy supported by 84 percent of union members. She also pointed to a pilot program in Smithers that successfully filled 95 percent of nursing vacancies within six months.
While nurse-to-patient ratios fall under provincial jurisdiction, Emery said communities like Terrace can still play a key role in supporting healthcare staff by improving access to housing, childcare, and recreational opportunities.
Speaking with the president of B.C Nurses Union - Adriane Gear points to nurse-to patient ratios as the only way forward . Stressing that government needs to wake up . She also, acknowledged the struggle nurses go through but urged nurses to hang in , saying progress is being made.
Northern Health previously told CFTK-TV News that the health authority is prioritizing incentives, recruitment, training, and redesigning work systems to stabilize the workforce across the region.
City officials say they plan to follow up with Northern Health and the province to learn more about the Smithers pilot program and explore similar solutions for Terrace