BC Rural Health Conference

The annual British Columbia (BC) Rural Health Conference (RHC) creates an intimate learning space for new and veteran rural physicians and allied health professionals to network, share knowledge, and update and learn new skills. Each RHC offers evidence-based, accredited, and interactive hands-on workshops and small group sessions, along with large plenaries, on numerous rural health topics. Wellness sessions and family-friendly social events are also interwoven into the event. The conference is planned and executed in collaboration with the University of British Columbia Continuing Professional Development and funded by the Joint Standing Committee on Rural Issues. 

The RCCbc team at the 2022 RHC in Penticton

Achievements

RHC Returned to an in-person format

The BC Rural Health Conference (RHC) remains a highly anticipated event that unites rural health professionals to network, collaborate, and share knowledge. After two consecutive years of virtual events, the 2022 RHC was hosted in Penticton, BC, and marked its return to in-person gatherings. With over 360 attendees, including speakers, exhibitors, and staff, the event was a tremendous success. The conference offered a rich program, featuring evidence-based accredited workshops, interactive small group sessions, and large plenaries on various rural health topics.

RHC's hybrid model provides flexible access to learning

The British Columbia Rural Health Conference (RHC) strives to provide an inclusive and flexible learning environment for rural physicians and allied health professionals. RHC offered a recording-only registration option for those unable to attend in person. Participants said they appreciated the virtual platform because it allowed them to attend, whereas, in previous years, it was not possible due to travel time, cost, or availability.  This hybrid model not only benefits participants by offering valuable rural CME and knowledge translation information but also reflects our commitment to planetary health by reducing the conference’s environmental impact.

Explore the Numbers

360 Participants

Attended the 2022 BC Rural Health Conference in Penticton

Plans for the Future

RCCbc looks forward to hosting the 2023 BC Rural Health Conference in Whistler from June 2-4, 2023. The conference will take place on the shared unceded traditional territories of the Skwxwú7mesh (Squamish) and Lilwat7úl (Lil’wat) Nations.

In 2022, the community of Whistler received the BC Rural Health Rural Community Award, and we are honoured to host the conference there for the first time. The Planning Committee, which includes Drs. Stuart Johnson and Nicole Ebert, developed a robust program that is both relevant to rural health and provides CME learning opportunities for providers at different stages of their careers. The conference will also feature social events, access to daycare services, and other wellness activities, making it a unique medicine conference that fosters strong relationships and connections among participants.

To ensure the health and safety of all participants, RHC 2023 will continue to follow all Government of BC Public Health Orders.