February 15, 2024 – For Immediate Release
Fredericton, NB – On December 14th, 2023, the Fredericton Chamber of Commerce delivered a letter to Minister of Health, The Honourable Bruce Fitch, concerning uncertainty surrounding the plan for a Hybrid Operating Room at the Dr. Everett Chalmers Regional Hospital. After an extended period of research and consultation with Fredericton physicians, we resolved that the completion of this expected project was of vital concern to the Fredericton region, including the Fredericton business community.
This issue, further informed us to the current state of concerns of many physicians in our community, and resulted in our stating a further conclusion:
“Recruitment and retention efforts now must also include supplying those who are here, who are dedicated, and who want to serve their patients, with the tools they need to do their job.”
On March 21, 2024, the Chamber, in partnership with the Greater Fredericton Area Physicians Staff Organization, will host our first Fredericton Chamber of Commerce Physicians Round Table, bringing together physicians from our community to discuss the current state of our health care system based on the personal experiences of those working within it daily. This expert, first-hand knowledge, will not only inform our advocacy, but it will also directly influence the traditional planks of our health care policy, namely our annual physician recruitment events.
“Health care is an essential component of a livable city and a primary concern of the business community, as demonstrated through our annual survey results and other direct communications with members” said Morgan Peters, Fredericton Chamber of Commerce CEO. “With an issue as important as health care, we are eager to continually grow our knowledge base and avenues of communication with those serving vital roles within our community.”
“Health care professionals are increasingly challenged to provide quality care to patients with resources that do not meet the needs of a growing population. Members of the Fredericton Area Physician Staff Organization welcome the opportunity to share their experiences and ideas with the Chamber of Commerce and combine our individual expertise to strengthen health care access in our community.” -Dr. Jill Goodyear, President of the Greater Fredericton Area Physician Staff Organization.
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The Fredericton Chamber of Commerce, a nationally accredited organization with more than 1,000 members, is an active business organization engaged in policy development and advocacy that affects the competitiveness of our members and the Canadian business environment. The Chamber’s vision is ‘Stronger Community Through Business Prosperity.’
