With warmer temperatures on the way and weather experts forecasting a hot summer, the Province and public-health officials are taking several steps to help people stay safe this summer and are asking people to plan ahead.

People in B.C. will have improved access to cervical cancer screening as a provincewide cervix self-screening program launches, including the option to screen at home, a first in Canada.

People in B.C., especially those most at risk of health impacts from extreme heat emergencies, will be better protected as the Province expands access to air conditioners for people who are medically vulnerable and have low incomes.

Starting June 1, 2023, people in B.C. can get prescriptions from their pharmacist for contraceptives and medications to treat 21 minor ailments, such as allergies, shingles, cold sores, pink eye and uncomplicated urinary tract infections.

A new medical school on the Simon Fraser University (SFU) Surrey campus is taking a significant step forward with the hiring of an interim dean and provincial funding to support its development.

People living in the Tri-Cities will benefit from improved access to team-based, comprehensive primary health care with the official opening of an urgent and primary care centre (UPCC) at its permanent location at 3105 Murray St. in Port Moody on Nov. 7, 2022.

Together, the Province, Doctors of BC, and BC Family Doctors have achieved a new payment model for family doctors to help protect, support and strengthen B.C.’s health-care system and patient care.

People living in Burnaby-Metrotown will benefit from increased access to team-based primary care with the official opening of a new urgent and primary care centre (UPCC) at Unit 102-4555 Kingsway on Tuesday, Nov. 1, 2022.