Ontario Government Invests $3.9 Million in New Primary Care Clinic for Algonquins of Pikwàkanagàn
PIKWÀKANAGÀN — In a move to enhance access to healthcare for Indigenous communities, the Ontario government is committing up to $3.9 million for the construction of a new primary care clinic for the Algonquins of Pikwàkanagàn Indigenous Primary Health Care Organization (IPCHO). The permanent facility will be located on the Pikwàkanagàn Reserve in Renfrew County, on Golden Lake and the Bonnechere River.
The new clinic aims to improve access to essential healthcare services for over 1,000 residents in the community. It will offer a range of services, including primary care, walk-in clinic support, referrals to specialists, lab testing, prenatal and postnatal care, and chronic disease management.
Ontario Deputy Premier and Minister of Health Sylvia Jones emphasized the government’s focus on connecting all Ontarians to primary care. “Our government is taking action and making record investments to ensure everyone who wants a primary care provider can connect to one, no matter where they live,” said Jones.
John Yakabuski, MPP for Renfrew—Nipissing—Pembroke, echoed her sentiments, calling the investment a significant step for the region. “This nearly $4 million investment for the construction of a permanent site will deliver on our commitment to the Algonquins of Pikwàkanagàn to improve access for their citizens to primary health care,” said Yakabuski.
The new clinic will also play a key role in addressing the shortage of healthcare workers in rural and remote areas. Through partnerships with Algonquin College and the University of Ottawa, the site will serve as a clinical placement hub for Nurse Practitioners, Registered Nurses, and Registered Practical Nurses. These placements provide real-world experience for students, increasing the likelihood they will return to similar communities to work, thereby strengthening local healthcare teams.
The project is part of Ontario’s broader “Your Health: A Plan for Connected and Convenient Care” initiative, which seeks to address the 10% of Ontarians without a regular healthcare provider.
Construction is expected to begin in spring 2025, once a construction partner has been secured. This clinic marks another step forward in Ontario’s efforts to close healthcare gaps and deliver equitable care to all residents.
For more information on the project and other healthcare initiatives, visit the Ontario government’s website.
