Atlantic health ministers agree to stand united in talks with Ottawa
One of the main focuses of the meeting was accessible drugs for seniors
Atlantic health ministers met in Halifax Wednesday and say they will be sending a message to the federal government as one united group.
"We support federal collaboration with provincial and territorial partners so we can tackle critical needs like community-based care, elder care, mental health and pharmacare," said Nova Scotia Health and Wellness Minister Leo Glavine.
"We would go to Ottawa as an Atlantic group of health ministers to stake out what is needed for the next decade," he said. "We will be one voice."
The ministers say they are working together to improve healthcare outcomes and access, and to save money through group procurement.
"Today's meeting was a great opportunity for all Atlantic ministers to gather in the same room to talk about important common health matters that touch New Brunswickers and all Atlantic Canadians," said Victor Boudreau, New Brunswick's Minister of Health.
One of the main focuses of the meeting was accessible drugs for seniors.
They also say they must continue to find innovative ways to improve rural health care and to explore collaborative procurement options, including joint requests for proposals.
"As a province and a region we are providing better access to medications and re-investing efficiencies back into competing pressures in our health care systems," said Prince Edward Island Health and Wellness Minister Doug Currie.
"This fall, our province will launch the first ever Under 65 Generic Drug Plan for the uninsured. We are committed to strong regional collaboration to strengthen regional health care," he said.
Boudreau said his premier, Brian Gallant, wrote the four federal leaders when the federal election campaign began.
Gallant's letter highlighted the health issues important to the people of New Brunswick.