The Carr Brothers - Ep 103 "Navigating New Brunswick's Healthcare Odyssey: A Conversation with Minister Bruce Fitch"

Embark on a compelling journey into the heart of healthcare in New Brunswick with Episode 103 of "The Carr Brothers," where the trio – Jody, Jack, and Jeff – sit down with the esteemed Honorable Minister Bruce Fitch, the top official for the Department of Health. The intrigue deepens as we discover Minister Fitch's unique connection with all three brothers, spanning a decade of collaboration and shared history.

Minister Fitch unveils his pre-ministerial background, leading into an enlightening discussion on the pressing healthcare issues facing New Brunswick. Reflecting on the past 18 months, he shares a powerful quote: "There are dedicated, smart people working 24/7 to help remove barriers and see where we can work collaboratively together."

With a 3.6 billion dollar budget and 22,000 provincial employees, Minister Fitch is responsible for one-third of the provincial budget. Minister Fitch and the Carr Brothers delve into the challenges posed by a recent population surge. The episode unfolds with insights on the 25% increase in ER patients, strategies for delivering better services, and the impending surge of 60,000 to 100,000 individuals without doctors.

Jody Carr adds depth to the conversation with the thought-provoking statement, "You have shifted away from closing hospitals to better-utilizing hospitals."

Audience questions take center stage, with viewers expressing concerns about the lengthy wait for family doctors and seeking solutions to expedite the process. The episode celebrates New Brunswick's leadership role, highlighting the emergence of collaborative clinics across the province, aiming for improved healthcare access without the need to see a doctor. An impressive 5,200 people have been paired with clinics over the past 8 months.

In a poignant moment, Minister Fitch responds to the pivotal question, "What is the number one priority in healthcare?" He emphasizes the need to enhance primary care and ensure the well-being of seniors: "We need to do better with primary care and make sure our seniors are looked after. We need to get those seniors into the right place with the right level of care."

As the episode concludes, "The Carr Brothers" once again deliver an engaging and informative experience, allowing viewers to connect with the brothers and their esteemed guest, gaining valuable insights into the current and future landscape of healthcare in the province. Don't miss this episode – your gateway to understanding the heartbeat of New Brunswick's healthcare.