KRSC and Vitalité Health Network collaborate

Kent County residents and Vitalité Health Network join forces to launch the “learning communities” model

Vitalité Health Network, Wednesday, October 12, 2022 – Kent Regional Service Commission (KRSC) members and Vitalité Health Network leaders met in Richibucto on Thursday, September 29. The objective was to launch the Community Health Needs Assessment (CHNA) for the Bouctouche, Richibucto and Saint-Antoine regions. The Network is mandated by the Department of Health to determine the health needs of the populations it serves.

Kent County also volunteered to launch the prototype of the “learning communities” model. This model, led by the community, invites community organizations to participate in implementing the recommendations generated by the CHNA. These improvements to community health have exceeded the Networks capabilities; therefore, the community must be involved. “The goal is very clear, namely to bring together the stakeholders needed to advance health initiatives in the community and implement an action plan to improve the care and services provided to the entire population of Kent County,” stated Brigitte Sonier-Ferguson, the Network’s Senior Vice-President of Performance, University Mission and Strategy.

The KRSC is pleased to work with the Network and community partners in the region to establish the first “learning community” in New Brunswick. “All residents of the Kent Region will benefit from this partnership, which is dedicated to improving the health of the region’s people as well as access to care,” declared Pierrette Robichaud, Chair of the KRSC. The KRSC has already laid the groundwork by collecting data and conducting an exhaustive study on health care in the region. “In addition, a study on the community’s health needs is underway, and this will make it easier to discuss and recommend projects dedicated to improving health services and the wellness of our residents,” added Pierrette Robichaud, who is thrilled with this new partnership between the Network and the KRSC. “Working closely with our health professionals, communities and local and regional organizations will be key to meeting the objectives that will be set by the Kent learning community committee.” This body will continue keeping residents updated through the KRSC Board of Directors.

All attendees demonstrated a high level of commitment at the meeting, which began with a presentation on the CHNA given by Émilie Warren, Regional Coordinator of CHNA Projects. Then Eric LeBlanc, Regional Planning Manager (Acting), in collaboration with Brigitte Sonier-Ferguson and Paul Lang, Executive Director of the KRSC, presented the learning communities model.

To participate in CHNA discussions, contact Émilie Warren at Emilie.Warren@vitalitenb.ca. For learning communities, contact Eric LeBlanc at Eric.LeBlanc@vitalitenb.ca or Paul Lang at Paul.Lang@csrk.ca.

Photo Caption: The photo shows members of the Kent Regional Service Commission, the community and Vitalité Health Network who participated in the meeting on September 29, 2022.