District Health Authority Chair, Members Appointed for Digby, Shelburne and Yarmouth Counties
HEALTH--District Health Authority Chair, Members Appointed for Digby, Shelburne and Yarmouth Counties
The chair and members of the new district health authority for Digby, Shelburne and Yarmouth counties were appointed today. These individuals can now push forward in setting the new direction for health care committed by government.
The district health authority is smaller than the former Western Regional Health Board, allowing for more focused management on community needs. Communities already are seeing a greater voice in decisions, with two-thirds of the authority members nominated by community health boards. The authorities are also required to work with local health boards in developing community health plans.
This new direction also requires stronger links among all levels of health care -- from prevention to treatment to continuing care. This means people will get the right care, in the right place, at a sustainable cost for taxpayers. As well, more accountability will be in place for health outcomes and results.
Community volunteer and retired chief firefighter Ronald Horrocks, is the district health authority chair for Digby, Shelburne and Yarmouth counties. He is joined by 11 members: Linda Blades, licenced practical nurse; Gerald Pottier, professional land surveyor with an interest in health issues; Barrie MacGregor, CEO of the YMCA in Yarmouth; Donald Bower, RN and Community Health Board member; Hubert D'Entremont, RN; Pearl Theriault, insurance broker; Beverly Thibodeau, past president of the Digby and Area Community Health Board; Darlene Lawrence, co- ordinator at the Digby County Family Resource Centre; Bonnie Van Tassell, care co-ordinator/placement officer Homes for Special Care; Dr. James Goodwin, and; Anne Smith, Community Health Board member.
Acting Health Minister Peter Christie said the health authority chair and members have diverse backgrounds, experience and talents.
"They have one thing in common -- their interest and commitment in improving health care in their communities. We look forward to working with them in developing a health care system that not only does a better job of meeting Nova Scotians' needs today, but is there to meet the needs of our children and grandchildren."
The health authority chair will help in selecting the chief executive officers, a process already under way. Orientation sessions for all members are scheduled in October.
The Health Authorities Act, passed in the spring of 2000, sets out the legislative framework for the new health care direction.