As a deeply concerned group of residents of our close-knit community, I felt compelled to bring to your attention something very personal and critical for us all. The lab services at Beaver Valley Clinic are scheduled to close permanently on February 28, 2025. The implications of this are significant, particularly for the seniors living in Fruitvale and the surrounding areas who rely so much on these facilities for their medical care and health and wellness needs. 

This pending closure is due to new accreditation requirements imposed by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of BC, and subsequently implemented by the Interior Health Authority. To be clear, the closure decision comes from these regulatory bodies, not from the BV Clinic itself.

The shuttering of the lab will invariably impact every member of our community, but none more so than our vulnerable seniors who deserve equitable, safe, and timely access to medical care. Taking this service away from them is blatantly inequitable and potentially dangerous. 

This issue is more than just a local inconvenience - it is a matter of public health and a test of our commitment to the welfare of every resident. By signing this petition, you stand for preserving vital local medical services, for fairness, and for the health and well-being of every member of our community, particularly our cherished seniors. We must not let this go without a fight. Please sign the petition and stand up for Beaver Valley's citizens. Let our voices be heard.

Copies of the petition will be sent to:

• Honourable Josie Osborne, Ministry of Health
• Mrs. Susie Chant, MLA & Parliamentary Secretary for Seniors’ Services and Long-Term Care, Ministry of Health
• Mrs. Debra Toporowski, MLA, Parliamentary Secretary for Rural Health, Ministry of Health
• Honourable George Chow, Ministry of Citizens' Services
• Shauna Brower, Deputy Minister, Ministry of Citizens' Services
• Council of Advisors, Office of the Seniors Advocate
• Mr. Steve Morrisette, MLA Kootenay-Monashee & Parliamentary Secretary for Rural Development 
• B. Anne Priestman, MD, FRCPC, President, College of Physicians and Surgeons of BC
• Anneline Du Preez, MB, ChB, CCFP (EM), elected Physician, District 6 - Kootneys
• Mr. Jay Chalke, Ombudsperson, Office of Ombudsperson of BC
• Mr. Richard Harding, Vice President, Clinical and Support Services, Interior Health