FREDERICTON (GNB) – The provincial government is investing in a two-year agreement with Hospice House, a residential hospice facility in Fredericton. The agreement represents a five-per-cent increase in yearly operational funding for Hospice Fredericton. Premier Brian Gallant made the announcement at the Hearts for Hospice Gala on April 28.

“Your government is committed to improving palliative care services in our province,” said Gallant. “Hospice House plays an essential role in the Fredericton region in supporting people at the end of life, and their families.”

The Department of Health will provide $1.533 million to help cover operational costs over two years.

In April 2016, Hospice Fredericton opened Hospice House, Atlantic Canada’s second 10-bed community palliative care facility for people who need 24-hour, expert care in the final weeks and months of life in a comfortable, home-like setting.

“Our partnership with the Government of New Brunswick to deliver critical and compassionate palliative and end-of-life care to New Brunswickers is critically important,” said John Sharpe, executive director of Hospice Fredericton. “Our mission to provide care, compassion and support to families and their loved ones is our top priority and this two-year agreement is a very positive step to ensuring quality care and long-term sustainability.”

Since 2001, Hospice Fredericton has been providing palliative and grief support services in the region.

The framework for a palliative care strategy was recently announced. The framework is based upon strategic pillars developed under five themes:

  • person-centred care;
  • family support network inclusion;
  • professional capacity;
  • community capacity; and
  • regional health authority, Extra-Mural/Ambulance New-Brunswick and provincial leadership.

Supporting those in need of palliative care is part of the New Brunswick Family Plan framework. The framework aims to improve the lives of all residents by addressing the factors that have the greatest impact upon health and well-being. It focuses government action in seven priority areas: improving access to primary and acute care; promoting wellness; supporting people with addictions and mental health challenges; fostering healthy aging and support for seniors; advancing women’s equality; reducing poverty; and supporting people with disabilities.

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