New Brunswickers now have additional options to get care in the community for their more pressing health needs.
Through a partnership involving the Department of Health, regional health authorities, Extra-Mural/Ambulance New Brunswick, and community health providers, primary health-care options have been expanded so that New Brunswickers do not need to go to the emergency room for care that can be delivered in the community.
The province’s hospitals are offering urgent and emergency services only as they deal with demands resulting from of the Omicron variant. The government estimates about 60 % of New Brunswick’s typical emergency department patients could be treated in a community setting if more timely access were available.
This project advances commitments in the health plan to improve access to primary health care and addiction and mental health services, and to make better use of all health professionals across the province, including family doctors, nurse practitioners and pharmacists.
These changes will allow us to address the emergency department crisis while also evaluating new options for care and determining what works best for New Brunswickers when it comes to accessing health-care services.
Social Supports NB is a place for all New Brunswickers to find information about accessing government and community programs, and resources to help you live a healthy, well-supported life. For more information: Social Supports NB | Government of New Brunswick.
211 is an up-to-date, accessible, searchable database provides comprehensive access to information about social, community, health and government services in New Brunswick. For more information: https://nb.211.ca
This website complements the 211 telephone service. By dialing 211, residents of New Brunswick can obtain information on a wide range of community programs and services.
Use this symptom checker to learn:
- How serious your symptoms are
- If a healthcare visit is needed
- What steps you can take to relieve your symptoms at home
Emergency Care – If you believe you are experiencing an emergency situation, call 911. Paramedics will now use their clinical judgement to determine whether transport to the hospital is required or if other health care options are better suited to your needs.
Family Doctor or Nurse Practitioner – If you have a family doctor or nurse practitioner, and you need general health care service, you should continue to contact them first for an appointment. If an appointment cannot be made in a timely way and you have a pressing need, use the other options available before visiting the Emergency Department.
Pharmacists – If you need a refill or have questions about your medicine, visit your pharmacist. Pharmacists can now renew many prescriptions without requiring a visit to your family doctor. They can also prescribe treatment for minor conditions, including urinary tract infections, skin conditions, fungal infections, and answer questions about vaccinations.
Tele-Care 811 – Call 811 any time of day or night to receive support from a nurse and get a referral to additional services in your community. We have enhanced our service and expanded the number of in-person community appointments and virtual appointments you can access within a 24-hour period.
Walk-in clinics and virtual walk-in clinics – If you require a consultation with a nurse practitioner or doctor for common illnesses, injuries, infections, mental health conditions and general health concerns, stop by a walk-in clinic or register with a free virtual clinic at your convenience. Get a diagnosis, sick or work note, urgent blood work, or a prescription through newly expanded hours.
Addiction and mental health clinics –– A new service delivery model called one-at-a-time therapy is now available in most community mental health centres. These services aim to improve access and reduce wait times, and are available by appointment or on a walk-in basis. More information on resources for mental health and substance use is available through Bridge the gapp.