Working in the Central Okanagan
Learn more about what it's like to work in our communities and essential information for family physicians who may be interested in practicing here.
Communities
The Central Okanagan is a dynamic and diverse community of around 235,473 and is the third-largest metropolitan area in British Columbia. Kelowna has a hot, sunny, and dry climate - other parts of Canada envy weather conditions.
KELOWNA
Kelowna harmonizes urban convenience with natural splendor. Its lakeside location offers water sports and hiking against a backdrop of rolling hills. Cultural enthusiasts relish art, music festivals, and local cuisine. Families appreciate schools, safety, and the UBC Okanagan campus, all enriched by a temperate climate for year-round enjoyment.
LAKE COUNTRY
Lake Country embodies the essence of lakeside living. With stunning vistas of serene lakes and lush landscapes, outdoor enthusiasts find paradise for boating, fishing, and hiking. Charming vineyards and orchards dot the area, contributing to a burgeoning wine and culinary scene. This tight-knit community offers a tranquil escape while being conveniently close to urban amenities, making Lake Country a captivating destination to call home.
WEST KELOWNA
West Kelowna is a community that beautifully blends natural splendor with modern living. Nestled between rolling hills and the shores of Okanagan Lake, residents enjoy a myriad of outdoor activities such as hiking, golfing, and water sports. The area's rich Indigenous heritage is celebrated through cultural events and experiences. With its proximity to both nature and urban conveniences, West Kelowna offers a balanced and fulfilling lifestyle.
PEACHLAND
Perched on the shores of Okanagan Lake, Peachland is a hidden gem within the Central Okanagan. This charming community boasts stunning lake and mountain views, offering residents and visitors a tranquil escape. Its picturesque waterfront, dotted with beaches and parks, provides a backdrop for water activities, picnics, and leisurely strolls. With a welcoming atmosphere, Peachland captures the peacefulness of lakeside living while maintaining a close-knit community spirit, making it a delightful place to call home.
Welcome to B.C
Thinking of moving to Canada and practicing in British Columbia? Our community is excited to welcome you! We have compiled resources below to make this transition seamless:
1. Getting Setup
Once you submit your application to join our Division, our staff will reach out to you. In our welcome email, we will include the steps to get set up. Some of the things we will get you setup with are outlined on this page:
2. Red Carpet Welcome
Our Division's "Red Carpet Welcome" program is designed to make the transition to our community easy and stress-free. Whether you are coming from another part of the province, another part of Canada, or elsewhere in the world, we go above and beyond to support you.
3. Learn About the Medical System in B.C. & Physician Compensation
Every province in Canada has a different approach to medical care delivery. When it comes to compensation, the BC Ministry of Health has introduced a number of new contract options for BC’s physicians. They provide more choice for established and new-to-practice family physicians who want to move away from Fee-for-Service (FFS) and practice in a different way.
Interior Health Authority
IH is a regional health authority providing direct and contracted health services including home and community care, mental health services, population and preventive health, and addictions services
To learn more about IH locations and services, please refer to the directory
Mental Health and Addictions Services