Healthcare is a vital issue for Nova Scotians. As I work towards becoming a candidate for MLA in Halifax Atlantic, I believe that improving our healthcare system requires a fundamental shift in how our government operates. The foundation of a functioning government is built on accountability, transparency, and public discourse. These are the key drivers that will force the government to eliminate secrecy and work effectively for the people.
The QEII Redevelopment: A Mystery in the Making
The redevelopment of the QEII Health Sciences Centre, which began in 2017, was supposed to be a beacon of progress. Instead, it has become a symbol of inefficiency and secrecy. The project, initially estimated at $2 billion, now may exceed $5 billion due to expanded scope and delays. The timeline has been extended to 2030, six years longer than initially planned. The current plans have also been scaled back significantly, reducing the number of beds from 600 to 216 and the number of operating rooms from 28 to 16.
In contrast, the St. Paul’s Hospital project in Vancouver, which started in 2019, is set to open in 2027 with a budget of $2.174 billion. It has provided regular updates, detailed timelines, and transparent reporting, building public trust and holding project managers accountable. This is the standard that Nova Scotia should aspire to.
For more information on the St. Paul’s Hospital project, visit The New St. Paul’s Hospital and Health Campus and this video.
For updates on the QEII redevelopment, you can check Build Nova Scotia – QEII Redevelopment Project. And QEII Halifax Infirmary Expansion Update.
Health minister can’t say when Halifax Infirmary redevelopment contract will be signed (July 22, 2024): CBC QEII update report.
The Growing Crisis in Primary Care
A significant issue is the growing number of Nova Scotians without a family doctor. As of June 2024, approximately 15% of Nova Scotians lack access to primary care, and the waitlist continues to grow. This situation exacerbates pressures on emergency departments, which face frequent closures due to staff shortages.
The “Action for Health” plan, launched by the PC government, aimed to address these issues. However, the implementation has been slow, and the results are disappointing. Metrics such as the surgical backlog and emergency department wait times have worsened, highlighting the flawed execution of the plan.
A Vision for Improvement: Accountability, Transparency, and Public Discourse
As Phil the Fixer, I am committed to advocating for a healthcare system that is transparent, accountable, and responsive to the needs of Nova Scotians. Here’s how I propose to achieve this:
- Eliminate Secrecy: The government must provide regular updates on projects like the QEII redevelopment, with clear timelines, cost details, and milestones. Openness builds trust.
- Increase Accountability: Holding project managers and government officials accountable for their actions is crucial. This includes setting measurable goals and regularly reporting on progress.
- Promote Public Discourse: Engaging the public in meaningful discussions about healthcare policies ensures that the voices of Nova Scotians are heard. This can be achieved through town hall meetings, public forums, and online platforms.
Conclusion: A Call to Action
Improving healthcare in Nova Scotia is about more than just building new facilities; it’s about building a government that operates with integrity and openness. We need a government that not only promises to fix healthcare but also delivers on those promises with clear, measurable actions.
Together, let’s demand better governance and a healthcare system that works for everyone. It’s time to hold our leaders accountable and build a brighter future for Nova Scotia.