An internationally trained physician who was forced to shut down her Moncton family practice this summer is seeking a court order to resume treating patients in New Brunswick. Dr. Arshia Haqani filed an application in the Court of King’s Bench this month asking to quash a series of decisions by Horizon Health Network and the College of Physicians and Surgeons of New Brunswick that left her without a licence to practise.
Haqani moved to Canada from Iran and participated in the Practice Ready Assessment New Brunswick program. In March 2025, she met with Premier Susan Holt during a celebration highlighting one of the first 10 participants of the initiative.
Employment History and Supervision Changes at Horizon Health Network
In February 2025, Haqani signed a fee-for-service job offer with Horizon Health Network to work as a hospitalist at The Moncton Hospital while establishing a community family practice, according to court filings. Her initial supervision arrangement required modification after Horizon determined her first supervisor had a conflict of interest, serving both as her community colleague and her hospital department chief.
Horizon Health Network informed Haqani on July 13 that it was “unable” to provide her with a “suitable supervisor” for her practice and was no longer able to support her “training.” Although Haqani requested a regular or defined licence after practising under supervision for nearly 13 months, the college rejected the request on the grounds that she had not completed the special licence supervision period.
Impact on Patients and Ongoing Legal Proceedings
In her court affidavit, Haqani stated that the shutdown created “devastating” financial repercussions and disrupted continuity of care for patients managing complex medical conditions.
Both Horizon Health Network and the College of Physicians and Surgeons of New Brunswick declined to comment on the allegations, citing the ongoing legal proceedings.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Licensing Dispute
What is the Practice Ready Assessment New Brunswick program?
The Practice Ready Assessment New Brunswick program is a program where participants complete clinical field assessments to confirm competency to practise medicine in the province. Dr. Arshia Haqani was one of the first 10 participants of the program.
The College of Physicians and Surgeons of New Brunswick changed her licence status on July 3 after her supervisor had resigned, leaving her without the required supervision mandated for holders of special medical licences.
How many patients lost their family doctor due to the practice closure?
Approximately 750 patients lost their family physician when Haqani was forced to shut down her community practice this summer.
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