Health Minister to Experience 24-Hour Wait in Moncton ER

New Brunswick’s Minister of Health, Dr. John Dornan, has committed to spending 24 hours in the Moncton Hospital emergency department to better understand the challenges faced by patients waiting for care. This decision follows his announcement regarding a new endoscopy suite at the hospital on Thursday, March 14, 2024.

During a press briefing, Dr. Dornan explained that he accepted an invitation to experience firsthand the realities of long wait times in the emergency room. “I don’t want to disrupt services. I don’t want to be a distraction. I’ll bring a good book,” he stated, emphasizing his intention to minimize any impact on hospital operations. He plans to utilize vending machines, acknowledging that many patients rely on them for sustenance during their wait.

The health minister indicated that his 24-hour experience would likely begin at 14:00 and conclude at 14:00 the following day. With a background as an endocrinologist, ICU physician, and former CEO of Horizon Health, Dr. Dornan recognizes that the dynamics of waiting in the emergency department differ significantly from providing direct patient care.

“I’ve spent many 24 to 36-hour shifts in hospitals, but treating one patient at a time is much different than waiting,” he noted. Dr. Dornan expressed his desire to gain a more profound understanding of the patient experience, particularly the anxiety and uncertainty that accompany long waits for medical attention.

The initiative has garnered attention from various stakeholders. Opposition leader Glen Savoie praised the minister’s effort but cautioned that the experience may not fully capture the emotional and physical toll on those who are unwell. “When you are a person who’s actually sick and in need of care, that wait feels very different,” Savoie remarked, highlighting the disparity between a healthy individual and a patient in distress.

Dr. Dornan plans to coordinate the specific details and timing of his visit with the individual who extended the invitation. He expressed enthusiasm for the opportunity, stating, “It’s one thing for people to tell me what they feel like. It’s another thing to be able to say, yes, brother, I know what it feels like.”

This initiative reflects a growing awareness of the challenges within the healthcare system in New Brunswick, particularly regarding emergency services. As Dr. Dornan prepares for his experience, many in the community are hopeful that it will lead to meaningful improvements in patient care and hospital efficiency.

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