With support from the state of Maine and led by Dr. Jonnathan Busko of St. Joseph's Hospital in Bangor, Swan's Island residents conducted an island health needs assessment. Community access to a licensed medical provider for urgent medical problems during the busiest months emerged as a key need.

In response, we developed SIFA, modeled on other successful island “Doc on a Rock” programs, and we are excited to launch this pilot project in July and August 2026.

Unbridged islands such as Swan's Island depend for their survival on effective access to health care. The mainland is 6 miles away by sea. Traveling off island for treatment of a routine minor issue is a burden on families. The ferry works under stringent safety guidelines from the US Coast Guard that limit the crew's availability after normal operating hours. LifeFlight of Maine is sometimes an option for critically ill or injured patients but is dependent on weather and availability. A first aid station will contribute substantially to the viability of our unique maritime community. SIFA will be staffed by volunteer licensed medical providers who can address minor injuries and illnesses at our free part time first aid station. Any more serious medical issues will continue to be referred to island EMS for potential emergency transport off-island to higher levels of care. Providers will support the island Emergency Medical Service.

In return, SIFA will provide housing to the provider and family, pay for ferry travel, and introduce the provider and family to island residents, sailing, and lobster. Our vision is that practicing community medicine in a beautiful environment while also having time to relax and play will be an enriching and rejuvenating mini adventure.