Health Minister Bruce Fitch (Zoom)

Health Minister Bruce Fitch said no one will be turned away at the emergency department this weekend.

In a Zoom call with reporters Friday afternoon, Fitch said it’s prudent to let the public know about the current situation.

“Again, the service is available for emergency situations. But I think it’s part of addressing the crises and trying to stabilize the healthcare system.”

Due to critical staff shortages, Horizon Health Network is asking patients with non-life threatening health issues to avoid the emergency departments at the Moncton Hospital and Saint John Regional Hospital this weekend.

RELATED STORY: UPDATE: Critical Staff Shortage At TMH And SJRH

Horizon Health recently announced 1,300 health care workers have been hired in the last five months.

Fitch believes all of those new employees are now working in the system.

The health minister hinted that announcements are coming soon to try to improve health care.

Fitch said a coordinated effort will be needed going forward.

“Whether it’s working together with social development or seeing Horizon and Vitalite working together as they haven’t been before, when you see some of the opportunities to do that.”

He said some information coming from frontline workers can be implemented rather quickly.

Fitch added Horizon has put forward a number of significant initiatives for emergency departments which will be implemented soon.