Access to medical care is key to a healthy community. Orcas will vote on a public hospital district (PHD) in April of 2018. There is a great deal to learn between now and the vote.

I hope you are able to attend the upcoming Town Hall meeting concerning access to medical care on Orcas. The meeting on Thursday, November 30, 5:30-7, at the Eastsound Fire Hall is the first in a series of community conversations hosted by the Coalition for Orcas Health Care (COHC). This first session will provide a brief overview of issues of rural medicine, and discussion of a vision for sustainable health care on the island, followed by ample time for questions and conversation.

I encourage everyone to take part in crafting a solution that will sustain access to care for all.

For those who may be interested in running for one of the five PHD commissioner positions, the Orcas Island Community Foundation is hosting a workshop on the roles and regulations for public districts with Deb Wiggins on Jan. 10 from 3–5 p.m. This workshop will cover all elected commissions and is ideal for those who have ever considered serving or currently serve on the fire commission, library board, school board, port, or parks and rec, as well as the hospital taxing district. Please contact the community foundation, 360-376-6423, info@oicf.us for more information or to reserve a seat.

Hilary Canty

Director, OICF