New Brunswick’s health-care system needs immediate action from the province, according to the associations representing nurses and physicians.

The New Brunswick Medical Society (NBMS) and New Brunswick Nurses Union (NBNU) unveiled their pre-budget submissions on Tuesday.

Members of the society and the association organized a pre-budget health stakeholder forum in Fredericton back in January.

Officials said the unprecedented event brought together representatives from several health-care organizations, including those in allied health and clinical support roles.

Six priority areas and accompanying recommendations were discussed and identified:

1. Re-engage with healthcare professionals to support informed and transparent decision-making.
2. Create and scale multidisciplinary team-based primary care clinics across the province to ensure primary health-care access to all New Brunswickers.
3. Prioritize the respect and retention of healthcare professionals to ensure continuity of service.
4. Prioritize healthy living and preventative care.
5. Fix the root causes of issues in the long-term care system.
6. Invest in the digital transformation of the health-care sector

The initiatives have an estimated price tag of nearly $600 million. Officials said while some recommendations entail long-term planning and investment, others could be done quickly.

Premier Blaine Higgs, Liberal Leader Susan Holt, and Green Party Leader David Coon took part in the forum and answered questions from those in attendance.

“Our healthcare professionals have shown unwavering dedication, readiness to collaborate, and a commitment to exploring innovative solutions,” said NBNU President Paula Doucet.

“Now is the time for the provincial government to heed these recommendations, assume accountability, and swiftly translate them into action.”

The report, Recommendations to Stabilize and Transform New Brunswick’s Health Care System, can be viewed by clicking here.