As 2024 comes to a close, we remain committed to building a stronger, more sustainable health-care system for Islanders. We understand the urgency of this work because every improvement directly impacts those who need care today. While there is more to do, the foundation we’ve laid this year sets the stage for a healthier future.
This year, we made historic investments in our health-care workforce, including the $187 million, five-year Physician Services Agreement. This agreement reduces red tape for physicians, simplifying billing codes from 450 to 30. These changes allow doctors to focus on patient care rather than administration. Competitive compensation now places our family doctors among the highest paid in Canada, strengthening our recruitment efforts.
The College of Physicians and Surgeons of P.E.I. has eased pathways for internationally trained doctors. Family doctors from countries like the U.S., U.K., Ireland and Australia no longer require Canadian certification, and specialists from approved countries can register more quickly. These changes are already paying off. In 2024, we signed 40 new physicians, including 11 family doctors, many of whom have already started their practices.
Our nursing workforce has grown with expanded programs at UPEI, adding 48 seats across the four-year and accelerated BSCN programs. December marked the graduation of our first cohort of 34 internationally educated nurses from the new Transition to Registered Nursing in Canada program, with more intakes planned monthly.
We’ve introduced initiatives like free tuition for LPNS, RCWS, and paramedics at Holland College, along with the Marion L. Reid Grant for Islanders pursuing healthcare studies across Canada. Over 150 Islanders have applied, committing to return and work in P.E.I. Recruitment incentives for Allied Health Professionals and bursaries for internationally educated nurses are also helping to strengthen our healthcare team.
Expanding the scope of practice for healthcare professionals has been a priority in 2024. For example, trained physiotherapists can now order x-rays, specialized nurses can prescribe medications, and optometrists with advanced training can treat glaucoma. These changes mean Islanders can access care faster and more efficiently.
Improving access to essential services is central to our efforts. Islanders aged 50 and older now receive free shingles vaccines, and the Insulin Pump Program no longer has an age cap. Over 150,000 health assessments have been conducted through the Pharmacy Plus program. Seven Open Access Clinics across P.E.I. offer same-day mental health and addiction care, ensuring immediate support when it’s needed most.
Construction has begun on a modern replacement for Hillsborough Hospital. The new Mental Health and Addictions Acute Care Facility and Life Skills Centre will provide state-of-the-art care for Islanders. Seniors and their families are benefiting from initiatives like the at-home caregiver benefit and 53 newly licensed private long-term care beds. The recently opened cataract surgical suite is on track to eliminate wait times by the end of 2025. MRI wait times are being addressed with short-term out-of-province options while we expand local capacity with additional staff in the coming years.
Looking ahead to 2025, we are focused on innovation and expanding care options. A new public dashboard for the patient registry will provide greater transparency. Investments in mobile x-rays, virtual care and a digital health platform will ensure more Islanders can access care when and where it’s needed. Plans for additional long-term care beds, enhanced adult day programs, and new community health centres will bring care closer to home.
Building a healthcare system is like completing a puzzle. Over the past year, we’ve established the edges — a strong foundation of bold investments, new programs, and streamlined processes. Now, we’re filling in the middle — the interconnected pieces that create a seamless system where Islanders feel supported at every step.
Together, we are creating a healthcare system that is stronger, more connected, and ready to meet the needs of today and tomorrow. Thank you for being part of this journey. In 2025 and beyond, we will approach every improvement with urgency, determination, and a commitment to making our system even better.
Hon. Mark McLane
Minister of Health and Wellness
MLA, Cornwall - Meadowbank
'Building a Stronger Healthcare System' was written by Hon. Mark McLane and was published in The Guardian on Friday, January 3, 2025.