Auditor General reports on excessive emergency room wait times

FREDERICTON (GNB)- Auditor General Paul Martin released a report today on emergency health services in New Brunswick, highlighting significant gaps in the Department of Health’s oversight and reporting mechanisms for timely access to emergency room care.

Martin’s audit found that emergency room wait times consistently exceeded established targets, and that contributing factors were insufficient treatment spaces and a budget that is not based on current need. Martin recommended the department develop a comprehensive strategy to address excessive wait times.

“Our audit found that the Department of Health does not have effective mechanisms in place to ensure timely access to emergency health services,” said Martin. The report also noted there is an opportunity for the department to review emergency room data, to address the risks contributing to untimely service delivery.

The Auditor General made 11 recommendations to the Department of Health, and the department has committed to implementing these recommendations.

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