PORT COLBORNE — The City of Port Colborne’s newly formed Healthcare Advisory Committee held its first official meeting Thursday, June 12, marking an important first step in developing an evidence-based strategy that will improve access to healthcare services in Port Colborne.
At the meeting, committee members elected Nurse Practitioner Sydney McDowell as Chair and Dr. Philip McGarry as Vice-Chair. Both bring strong leadership and a wealth of healthcare experience to the roles.
“Since my early teens, I’ve seen access to healthcare in our community gradually diminish,” said McDowell. “Like many others, I’ve experienced the impact this has had on my loved ones and neighbours. I joined the Healthcare Advisory Committee because I believe it’s time to work collaboratively toward meaningful change. Our community deserves better, and I’m committed to being part of the solution.”
McDowell was born and raised in Niagara and has called Port Colborne home since 2021. She holds a Master of Nursing with a Collaborative Specialization in Women’s Health and a Nurse Practitioner Certification from the University of Toronto. She also holds additional certifications in health equity, diversity, and psychiatric nursing. Her work has focused on serving vulnerable and marginalized communities with holistic, patient-centred care.
Dr. McGarry, a lifelong Niagara resident and longtime family physician, said he is honoured to serve as Vice-Chair and eager to begin to address the healthcare challenges facing the people of Port Colborne.
“This work is not only timely — it’s essential,” he said. “Together, we have a unique opportunity to help shape a more equitable and sustainable healthcare future for our community.”
Dr. McGarry has served the Port Colborne community since 1979 as a family doctor, long-term care provider and hospitalist. His deep knowledge of the region’s healthcare system and decades of service will help inform the committee’s work as it moves forward.
The Healthcare Advisory Committee’s mandate is to develop a clear path forward to address local health needs and ensure access to quality services are timely and equitable. The group brings together a mix of residents to ensure a broad range of voices and perspectives are included.
The next committee meeting is scheduled for early July and is open to the public. Meeting dates, agendas and approved minutes will be posted at https://www.portcolborne.ca/en/city-hall/healthcare-advisory-committee.aspx