(January 6, 2023, St. John’s) – Pleaman Forsey, MHA for Exploits, says the upcoming departure of a doctor in Botwood is leaving an area already strained for healthcare in dire straits.

“In 2016, the Liberal Government closed 24-hour service at the emergency department at the Dr. Hugh Twomey Health Care Centre in Botwood (DHTHCC). Despite empty promise after empty promise to restore the service, the department remains without 24-hour service,” said Forsey.

“Last Spring, the town of Bishops Falls lost their family doctor, leaving a town of 3,000 without a family doctor. Now, another physician at the DHTHCC is leaving in February, with no replacement secured. The upcoming departure is just another blow to a healthcare system in crisis in Newfoundland and Labrador – especially in Central Newfoundland.”

Forsey says rural healthcare is suffering under the Liberal Government’s inaction on the healthcare crisis facing Newfoundland and Labrador.

“Not a day goes by without news of an emergency department diversion or a family doctor leaving in our province. Central Newfoundland has seen frequent diversions throughout the region. What does this mean for primary healthcare for the residents of Exploits and surrounding region?” said Forsey.

“Instead of action, we’re hearing empty promises from this government to enhance healthcare in our region. The people of my district and Central Newfoundland are sick and tired of empty promises from this administration. When will healthcare in Central Newfoundland and across Newfoundland and Labrador become a priority for the Liberal Government?”

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Contacts:

David Maher

Director of Strategic Communications

709-725-0984

DavidMaher@gov.nl.ca