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Health Minister John Ottenheimer
focused on “a year of extraordinary cooperation” between government
and the Newfoundland and Labrador Medical Association in his speech
at this year’s annual general meeting.
“This has been a year in which we have
begun a journey together that will end with a revitalized health
care system — one that will provide quality, sustainable health care
for generations to come,” Minister Ottenheimer said to the AGM
delegates. “I think we have demonstrated repeatedly during the past
year that we have the will, and the ability, to work together in the
interest of patients and the broader public.”
The minister said that since he took on
the health portfolio a little less than a year ago, people routinely
approach him to offer their advice and opinions. All have a vested
interest in what government is doing to improve health care.
“There are 540,000 people, who if you
asked them, would tell you that they want a quality health care
system that is accessible and works for them when and where they
need it,” he said. “Whether they are seeking primary care from
physicians, diagnostic tests, mental health services, addictions
counselling, surgery or placement in a long-term care facility, they
want to have confidence that health and community care will be there
now and for their children and grandchildren.
“That’s the job government has taken
on, and in that respect, we’re no different from each of you,
because that’s the job you’ve taken on as well,” he told the
assembled physicians.
Minister Ottenheimer congratulated the
NLMA and immediate past-president Dr. Andrew Major for the
leadership and support demonstrated in the past year on a number of
critical initiatives including the restructuring of the province’s
health boards, new smoke-free legislation, and new safety measures
for ATVs.
He noted that leadership and support
work both ways.
“As a government, we recognize the
importance of supporting our physicians and health care
professionals. We know that everyone wins with the provision of new
technology, modern diagnostic and medical equipment, along with
enhanced services,” said Minister Ottenheimer. “It gives physicians’
access to the latest technology, allows them to provide better care
to their patients and it enhances a physician’s quality of life
which is vitally important in the recruitment and retention of
health professionals.”
The minister said that while the NLMA
and government have accomplished a lot together in the past year,
there are always challenges ahead.
“Our current contract with physicians
expires September 30, 2005 and we have a busy few months of
preparation ahead to ensure the upcoming negotiations are conducted
with respect, from both sides, and that all interests are explored
and addressed in an appropriate manner, within current constraints,”
said Minister Ottenheimer.
“Moving forward, we need to build on
the current MOA to ensure that we can continue to recruit and retain
physicians to meet the emerging health needs of our citizens. I can
assure you that whatever differences we may have, they pale in
comparison, to the objectives we share.”
The
full text of Minister Ottenheimer’s remarks is available in PDF. |
