New Brunswick Reviews Surgical System to Cut Wait Times

New Brunswick is reviewing its operating room system to enhance efficiency and reduce surgical wait times. The provincial health department, in collaboration with two regional health authorities, aims to optimize the use of existing resources. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to improve surgical services across the province.

Health Minister John Dornan announced that the review will assess current practices to identify factors influencing operational efficiency. The evaluation aims to make necessary adjustments while establishing new metrics to monitor progress. “A final report is anticipated in the coming months, which will provide a roadmap for improving the efficiency of surgical services across the province,” Dornan stated.

The Holt government has prioritized surgical access as part of its health plan, which was introduced last October. The plan sets a target for optimizing operating room usage by May 2026. According to the government, maximizing operating room efficiency through extended hours and improved scheduling can lead to timely surgeries, ultimately reducing backlogs and wait times.

The New Brunswick Health Council, led by CEO Stéphane Robichaud, has been analyzing surgical wait time data for several years. This analysis reveals significant variability in wait times across different health zones and among specialists. Robichaud noted that family physicians often refer patients to specialists with whom they have personal connections, which can create inequities in service demand.

The Holt government’s approach differs from the previous administration’s focus on specific surgical procedures, such as hip and knee replacements. Robichaud emphasized that previous strategies tended to improve wait times for certain surgeries while inadvertently disadvantaging others.

To measure the effectiveness of the new health plan, the government is tracking the number of surgeries on the waitlist for more than 365 days and the percentage of surgical readmissions within 30 days.

In recent years, the Higgs Progressive Conservative government sought assistance from the private sector to alleviate wait times for cataract surgeries. This approach has led to most publicly funded cataract procedures now being performed outside New Brunswick hospitals, facilitated by contracts with private ophthalmology surgical centres. Robichaud acknowledged that while these clinics have positively impacted wait times, it is crucial to evaluate the use of private surgical centres on a case-by-case basis.

Moncton’s East Coast Surgical Centre has expressed its capability to handle various publicly funded surgeries, including hernia repairs and pediatric dental procedures. However, the centre’s director of operations indicated that communication with the government has been lacking. In response, Dornan mentioned that the government is open to discussions with any entities willing to assist in improving health care for New Brunswickers.

As New Brunswick works to streamline its surgical system, the focus remains on balancing efficiency with equitable access to care, ensuring that all residents receive timely treatment. The forthcoming report is expected to play a critical role in shaping the province’s surgical services landscape.