In this episode of The Country Club Podcast, host Diana Cassidy-Bush welcomes family physician Dr. Charles Mustard—who’s spent 19 years serving Tweed, Ontario—to unpack the unique landscape of wellness and healthcare in small-town life. From Dr. Mustard’s journey swapping urban pace for rural roots, to myth-busting assumptions about diversity and medical services in rural Ontario, you’ll learn how to leverage team-based clinics, allied health professionals, and nature’s restorative power to thrive beyond the city limits. Whether you’re a newcomer or a longtime resident, discover actionable tips for accessing primary care, building meaningful community connections, and embracing a balanced, health-first lifestyle in rural Ontario.

Timestamps:

00:00:00 – Intro: Welcome to The Country Club—beyond dress codes & tee times

00:00:30 – Podcast mission: more than buying property—plan, seize opportunities, build future

00:01:00 – Listener Q&A Recap: Lisa’s question on meeting people while working from home

00:02:30 – Episode focus: wellness & healthcare in rural Ontario with Dr. Charles Mustard

00:03:00 – Guest Intro: Dr. Mustard’s 19-year journey from urban practice to Tweed

00:04:00 – Dr. Mustard’s background: from North & cities to rural family practice

00:05:00 – Recruitment then & now: persistence of colleagues, team-based care models

00:07:00 – The rise of interdisciplinary rural clinics & why young docs want them

00:09:00 – Surprises: rural diversity, social connectedness & true “cradle-to-grave” care

00:10:30 – Personal adjustment: physician vs. spouse’s path to community involvement

00:12:30 – Defining wellness in the country: nature, balance & social ties

00:14:30 – Encouraging patients: hobbies, exercise & mid-day routines to connect locally

00:16:00 – Available services: team clinics, allied health & local specialists

00:19:00 – Comprehensive care: palliative support & family involvement

00:21:00 – Access tips: attaching to clinics, virtual care options & emergency fallback

00:23:00 – Evolution of primary care: chronic disease, EMRs & an aging population

00:24:30 – Doctor-patient bonds: confidentiality, rewards & community trust

00:26:00 – Dr. Mustard’s self-care: gardening, screened porch zen & travel adventures

00:28:30 – Closing thoughts & call for listener questions

00:30:00 – Outro: follow, consult professionals & stay tuned for more rural insights

Notable Quotes

“Social connectedness is a huge determinant of health.”

“There’s almost a spiritual connection to nature that people develop.”

Key Takeaways

1. Embrace Team-Based Care: Seek attachment to local interdisciplinary clinics—physicians, NPs, social workers, dieticians—sooner rather than later.
2. Leverage Nature: Encorporate outdoor activities—gardening, biking, mindful walks—to boost mental and physical wellness.
3. Build Community: Join hobby groups, volunteer committees or local events to accelerate social connectedness.
4. Own Your Care: Family doctors in rural areas often manage chronic conditions you’d otherwise see specialists for—empower yourself with regular check-ins and open dialogue.
5. Plan Ahead: Understand your local healthcare network—virtual options, allied services, emergency protocols—to navigate care seamlessly.

Facebook: Diana Cassidy-Bush, Sales Representative Royal LePage ProAlliance Realty | Tweed ON

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YouTube: Diana Cassidy-Bush

Website: Home | dianacassidybush.ca

Email: [email protected]

This podcast is for educational purposes only - real estate isn’t one-size-fits-all! Every deal, market, and situation is unique, so be sure to get professional advice tailored to your needs. If you’d like to discuss your real estate journey, we’d love to chat - reach out anytime. Thanks for listening!