The Saint John Regional Hospital. (Image: Brad Perry)
Legislation has been introduced in New Brunswick that would make it mandatory for hospitals to reports all gunshot and stab wounds to the police.
Justice and Public Safety Minister Ted Flemming says a timely reaction is critical to prevent further violence, injury or death.
The legislation was brought forth yesterday by the provincial government and if passed, it would require reports be made to police or RCMP, depending on where the hospital is located.
Flemming adds, this act will help health-care professionals balance the need for public safety and the need to maintain patient confidentiality.
Hospitals have the discretion on reporting stab wounds that are self-inflicted or unintentionally inflicted in favour of psychiatric intervention. If it is believed a gunshot wound is self-inflicted, it will have to be reported as it may indicate issues with use or storage of a firearm that might place others at risk.
