Health Minister John Dornan, a former physician, observed the progression of a collaborative care team during his visits to Charlotte Country Hospital in St. Stephen for endocrinology clinics. Recently, Dornan, now serving as health minister, announced a $3.6 million investment by the province to expand collaborative health services in St. Stephen. The aim is to enhance primary-care services for a broader population within the community.
Dornan emphasized the significance of providing timely and appropriate care within the local community. He noted the team’s efforts in expanding staff and enhancing primary care services, which have led to the clinic’s capacity being exceeded. Since February, the clinic has integrated seven additional healthcare professionals and accommodated 310 new patients without doctors.
The government plans to establish and support a minimum of 10 collaborative care teams across New Brunswick this year, with St. Stephen being the ninth location confirmed. Premier Susan Holt highlighted the existing Charlotte County Collaborative Wellness Centre within the hospital and expressed the intention to establish a standalone clinic to cater to the growing demand for services.
The collaborative team at the centre consists of various healthcare professionals, including physicians, nurse practitioners, registered nurses, licensed practical nurses, respiratory therapists, and a social worker. Additionally, an access clinic collaborates with local physicians to attend to non-urgent medical needs, benefiting over 2,000 individuals since its inception.
Dornan emphasized the importance of team-based care in enhancing patient outcomes and supporting healthcare providers. The government’s commitment to expanding collaborative care teams aligns with the province’s long-term health plan. Dornan highlighted the positive impact of this care model on health worker recruitment and retention.
Progressive Conservative MLA Kathy Bockus commended the funding announcement for the new clinic, emphasizing the preference for collaborative care models among healthcare professionals. Bockus stressed the benefits of collaborative practices over solo practices, emphasizing the continuity of care for patients within a team-based setting.
Throughout the year, the province has announced support for collaborative care teams in various regions, with plans for additional expansions by the end of the year to strengthen healthcare services across New Brunswick.