Nova Scotians Sought For National Health Council
The province is looking for qualified people interested in serving on the soon-to-be-created National Health Council.
Health Minister Angus MacIsaac said today, Oct. 7, that Nova Scotia is looking for potential candidates for a position as an expert and public representative.
The health council was a key commitment of the February 2003 First Ministers Accord on Health Renewal. It will monitor and make annual public reports on the implementation of the accord, particularly its accountability and transparency provisions.
"Nova Scotia supported the idea of a national health council from the beginning, and we're pleased to see it coming together," said Mr. MacIsaac. "We are looking for individuals who want to represent this province and give a voice to Nova Scotians and our health community in shaping the future of health care in Canada."
Implementation of the accord will be governed by a 27-member council that includes a chair, 13 people acting as federal, provincial and territorial representatives, and 13 people representing expert and public input.
Nova Scotia can nominate up to four potential candidates to serve as an expert and public representative.
The province is inviting the public, health care organizations and other groups to suggest potential candidates.
Mr. MacIsaac also emphasized the importance of the $2 billion in funding expected from the federal government as part of the accord. "We welcome accountability, but we also need the funding to provide the health care services we're accountable for," he said. Nova Scotia's share of the $2 billion is estimated at $60 million.
The deadline to submit candidates' names to the Department of Health is Monday, Oct. 27.
Suggestions should be submitted with a short biography or resume by e-mail to [email protected] by fax at 902-424-4570 or by mail at the Office of the Deputy Minister, 4th Floor, Joseph Howe Building, 1690 Hollis St., Halifax, N.S. B3J 2R8.
Potential candidates should agree to have their names and credentials submitted to the selection process.