The District of Kitimat has launched a new financial incentive program offering up to $20,000 to healthcare professionals who join a local practice or fill an open position.
The initiative is part of the Kitimat Healthcare Professionals Attraction and Retention Strategy adopted in 2024. Council approved the first-year budget earlier this year with support from a funding partnership with LNG Canada.
鈥淭he District has been a long-time supporter of the healthcare sector in Kitimat,鈥� said Mayor Phil Germuth. 鈥淲e recognize the challenges in recruiting healthcare professionals and want to give them even more reasons to make Kitimat their home.
"By bringing new healthcare professionals into Kitimat, this portion of the program not only addresses immediate vacancies but also strengthens long-term retention by building a more stable and supported healthcare workforce.鈥�
Applications are now open and will be reviewed beginning Sept. 15, 2025. The program applies retroactively to Jan. 1, 2025, and is set to run for three years, with a review planned depending on uptake.
To support the rollout, the District hired a Health Recruitment Coordinator who has worked with local employers and organizations to form a Healthcare Working Group. The group helped shape the incentive and will continue guiding future efforts as the broader strategy unfolds.
鈥淭his program addresses key gaps in healthcare recruitment locally,鈥� said Rob Goffinet, chairperson of the Kitimat Health Advocacy Group. 鈥淭he Working Group鈥檚 input helped ensure the incentive supports professionals who are new to our community, and we鈥檙e pleased to see this program launched.鈥�
Additional initiatives are expected to follow later this year, including retention and training supports, housing allowances, and welcome packages. These measures are part of ongoing efforts to make Kitimat a more appealing place for healthcare professionals to live and work.
