Medical Society ‘Encouraged’ By Recent Throne Speech

The president of the New Brunswick Medical Society says he is encouraged by several health-care commitments in the recent throne speech.

Dr. Jeff Steeves said improving primary care access, reducing wait times for hip and knee surgeries, and enhancing mental health and addictions service access are critical.

“We are eager to participate in plans to combat youth vaping and optimize health-care delivery and support for seniors,” said Steeves in a statement.

Steeves said the province also needs a new health plan which takes a “holistic view” of the health system and needs of residents.

He said we must address the shortage of health-care professionals, especially in northern and rural areas, improve timely emergency care access, and enhance access to reproductive care, including abortion.

“We look forward to collaborating with government and stakeholders to move our health system forward and improve access to care for New Brunswickers,” said Steeves.