Surrey Backs City Clinics to Tackle Doctor Shortage

Surrey council greenlights city-supported medical clinics set to open in 2026, aiming to ease the family doctor shortage and boost local care access.

Surrey Takes a Bold Step on Primary Care

Surrey is moving fast. And this time, the focus is clear: easier access to family doctors.

On December 16, 2025, Surrey City Council gave the green light to start talks on building the city’s first city-supported medical clinics. As a result, two new clinics could open their doors in 2026. More importantly, the plan targets a problem many residents feel every day—finding a family doctor.

What the Community Medical Clinics Initiative Means

The clinics sit at the heart of Surrey’s Community Medical Clinics Initiative. Therefore, the goal is simple and direct. The city wants to bring primary care closer to home. At the same time, leaders want to cut long wait times. And above all, they want care that lasts.

Because of this approach, the city plans to support clinics that serve local needs first.

Why Council Chose Total Life Care Granville Medical

To move forward, council approved negotiations with Total Life Care Granville Medical (TLC). TLC is a B.C.-based primary care network. Moreover, it already runs two clinics in Surrey. Because of that, the city sees strong value in TLC’s local experience.

If talks go well, TLC will build and operate both clinics. However, council will still review and approve the final agreements. That step ensures transparency and control.

A Direct Response to Surrey’s Doctor Shortage

Right now, many Surrey residents struggle to find a family doctor. Consequently, care often feels out of reach.

Mayor Brenda Locke says the city cannot wait. Instead, she stresses action. According to her, these clinics will bring care into neighbourhoods faster. In addition, city leaders call the plan practical, focused, and grounded in real needs.

Clinics That Also Train Future Doctors

The plan goes beyond today. These clinics will also serve as teaching sites for Simon Fraser University’s new medical school, which opens next fall.

Because of this partnership, students will learn while serving the community. In turn, the city hopes more doctors will stay and practice locally. This model supports care now and builds strength for the future.

What the Clinics Will Look Like

Each clinic will cover about 2,000 square feet. Together, they will host eight to ten health-care providers per site.

Teams will include family doctors, nurses, allied health workers, and support staff. Additionally, TLC plans to use advanced digital systems. These tools will help with patient care, records, and security.

Costs Still Under Review

For now, the city has not finalized costs. All financial details will return to council once talks end. Still, early models suggest low ongoing costs.

Before construction starts, council will review every expense. Therefore, residents can expect full oversight.

What Comes Next

If negotiations succeed, Surrey’s first city-supported clinics will open in 2026. Until then, the city will keep moving step by step.

In short, Surrey is not waiting. Instead, it is building solutions—one clinic at a time.

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