New Dieppe Clinic Opens for Children Without Family Doctors

A new clinic dedicated to providing healthcare for children under the age of five without a family doctor officially opened in Dieppe on March 11, 2024. This vital service aims to support nearly 2,000 children in the Beauséjour health zone, which includes Greater Moncton and extends from Richibucto to Sackville, as reported by the Vitalité Health Network.

The clinic will conduct comprehensive assessments of various health indicators, including growth, weight, and head circumference, as well as evaluations of motor, cognitive, and social development. In addition, it will address key aspects of a child’s daily life, such as eating, sleeping, and hygiene habits. According to a news release from the Vitalité Health Network, the clinic will treat common health issues such as fever, cough, ear infections, respiratory infections, rashes, digestive disorders, and conjunctivitis. Children with chronic conditions like asthma, eczema, or allergies will also receive ongoing care.

Stéphanie Roy, Vice-President of Health and Community Services for Vitalité, emphasized the clinic’s role in supporting families. When newborns are discharged from the hospital without a designated family doctor, hospital staff can refer them directly to the clinic. Roy stated, “If a parent calls the clinic and does not have a referral, we’re going to find a way to have a referral for that family.” This approach is designed to ensure that children receive prompt medical attention even if they lack a primary care provider.

Prior to the establishment of this clinic, services for these children were available through New Brunswick Health Link. Roy noted that bringing the clinic under the umbrella of Vitalité will enhance its connection to existing healthcare teams within the network. “We expect to match [the children] when they reach the age of five with local family health teams so they don’t fall out with no primary-care providers,” she added.

The opening of this clinic represents a significant step toward addressing the healthcare needs of young children in the region. By providing accessible care tailored to their unique requirements, the clinic aims to foster healthier development and ensure that families receive the support they need.