The Dr. Everett Chalmers Regional Hospital in Fredericton. Image: Submitted/Horizon Health Network
Horizon Health Network has received approval to link several of its hospitals with universities, forming a network aimed at improving health care through research and education.
Saint John Regional Hospital will act as the main centre, while hospitals in Moncton, Fredericton, and Miramichi will participate as partners.
Hospitals included:
- Saint John Regional Hospital (SJRH)
- The Moncton Hospital (TMH)
- Dr. Everett Chalmers Regional Hospital (DECRH)
- Miramichi Regional Hospital (MRH)
This designation allows Horizon to formalize its partnerships with institutions like the University of New Brunswick and Dalhousie University.
Dr. Paul Atkinson, Professor of Emergency Medicine at Dalhousie, said with the new designation medical students from around Atlantic Canada will be able to partake in exciting research projects far earlier in their careers.
“These new affiliations signal to the rest of the country and beyond that we’re not just delivering health care – we’re leading the way in medical education, research, and innovation,” said Atkinson. “Horizon’s connection with academic institutions will continue to support the training of medical students and other health professionals across New Brunswick.”
Although Horizon is already able to participate in research and is currently involved in over 400 medical research studies, this new framework is expected to provide more opportunities to combine clinical work with academic research.
“This designation will help us integrate care, research, and education,” said Dr. Susan Brien, Horizon’s VP of Academic, Medical, and Research Affairs.
Health Minister Bruce Fitch also expressed support for the move, stating that the partnership will help address complex health issues in a more coordinated way.
It is also expected that the change will make it easier for Horizon to recruit and retain medical professionals as there will be more opportunities to participate in research projects.
