A decade-long pilot project at the Dr. Everett Chalmers Regional Hospital in Fredericton has been made permanent.

The Horizon Health Network currently has three physician assistants working at the hospital, with one more assistant to be added soon.

“Physician assistants help serve an incredible need for patients through reduced wait times and great care,” said Health Minister Bruce Fitch.

“Allowing more access to health care through non-traditional providers allows for timelier service for needy patients.”

Physician assistants help reduce wait times by assessing patients, ordering tests, reviewing test results with the patient, prescribing medications, helping implement recovery plans, and providing a positive patient experience at the hospital’s emergency department since 2011 when the pilot project started.

The current team of physician assistants sees more than 7,000 patients per year, according to a release from the province.

“We are fortunate to have a dedicated team of physician assistants who work hard to meet the needs of patients who come to us for emergency care,” added Horizon’s interim president Margaret Melanson.