In B.C., there are two provincially funded programs that are looking at trying to sustain rural obstetrical programs, by providing mentorship, providing access to training that's close to home, building confidence and building the competence in providing emergency services. They've individualized eight communities in B.C. as part of their rural obstetrical program, which is funded, unfortunately, through the Doctors of BC. However, they've been very inclusive, including midwives and nurses in their training platforms. We're hoping that increases capacity and impacts the communities to keep those providers there.
It's difficult to stay in a community if you lose or you start.... There's a critical mass, and if you take away one key player, the whole house of cards can fall down. They're trying to build a system. There are people who feel they want to stay there because they feel well supported and well funded to do so.