Statement on cancellation of emergency department changes

“The New Brunswick Medical Society acknowledges the need for the provincial government to halt the reforms announced last week to emergency departments in six communities. There were many unanswered questions with government’s previously announced plan that concerned physicians and community leaders. We observed since the announcement that many physicians and citizens expressed passionate and thoughtful views about the implications of these changes. Many agreed that our health system must be modernized to reflect the population needs of our province and that stakeholders must have a voice prior to decisions being made. Meaningful health system change requires that health-care providers and community leaders be at the table and involved in fact-based discussions with government. Physicians are prepared to work closely with the province, health authorities, and community leaders to improve our health system to benefit all New Brunswickers and to meet the challenges of today and tomorrow.”

Dr. Chris Goodyear, FRCSC
President, New Brunswick Medical Society