New Brunswick has begun a psychiatry resource plan aimed at improving access to care and supporting psychiatrists.
The Department of Health said the Psychiatry Resource Strategy is designed to address challenges such as rising mental health needs, an aging workforce and global competition for health‑care professionals.
Justice Minister Robert McKee, who is also responsible for addictions and mental health services, said the government is committed to building a responsive and skilled psychiatry workforce.
“Through this plan, we are taking concrete steps to strengthen our mental health system, enhance access to care and support the professionals who deliver these essential services,” McKee said in a government release.
The strategy outlines six pillars: education, recruitment methods, community, care model, compensation and technology.
The department said these areas will guide collaboration, modernize care delivery and help ensure a sustainable workforce.
Workforce and addictions and mental health services are among six priority areas outlined in the provincial health plan, Caring for New Brunswick: Putting People at the Heart of Health Care.
Development of the plan included input from psychiatrists, addictions and mental health services, francophone affairs and child, youth and adult services.
A steering committee brought together representatives from Horizon Health Network, Vitalité Health Network, the New Brunswick Psychiatric Association, the New Brunswick Medical Society, Dalhousie University, the Université de Moncton and the Department of Health.
Dr. Anthony Njoku, president of the New Brunswick Psychiatric Association, said psychiatrists worked with government and partners to shape the plan.
“It represents a shared commitment to improving access to timely, high‑quality psychiatric care and ensuring that the workforce is supported to meet the province’s evolving needs,” Njoku said.
The Department of Health said it will continue working with partners to monitor progress and ensure the best outcomes for New Brunswickers.
