Vitalité Health Network Bolsters Medical Staff, Advances Emergency Care
The Vitalité Health Network is making significant progress in addressing healthcare staffing challenges, particularly in emergency services. Recent recruitment efforts have added four recent physicians, three of whom will directly support emergency department services, according to Dr. France Desrosiers, President and CEO of Vitalité Health Network. This comes as the network continues its efforts to restore overnight emergency department service at the Stella-Maris-de-Kent Hospital.
Recent Recruitment Successes
Since January 1, 2024, Vitalité Health Network has successfully recruited a total of 17 physicians, with a net gain of 41 new doctors after accounting for 18 departures. This represents the largest number of physicians recruited in a single year in recent memory for the network.
Leadership and Vision
Dr. France Desrosiers, who has served as President and CEO since November 2020, brings over 25 years of experience in medicine and management to her role. Dr. Desrosiers holds a Doctor of Medicine degree from the Université de Montréal and is a member of several professional organizations, including the College of Family Physicians of Canada and HealthCareCAN.
Dr. Desrosiers has identified key challenges facing the healthcare system, including an aging population, an increase in chronic diseases, and a labor shortage. Under her leadership, Vitalité Health Network has focused on establishing a learning culture built on continuous improvement and accountability, emphasizing measurable results and performance.
Improving Access to Primary Care
Dr. Desrosiers has as well spearheaded the design and implementation of a model of local family health teams, aimed at improving access to primary care and strengthening interdisciplinary collaboration. Notably, she continues to maintain a practice as a family physician, remaining connected to frontline patient care.
Ongoing Efforts to Restore Emergency Services
The recruitment of new physicians is a critical step in the ongoing effort to resume overnight emergency department service at Stella-Maris-de-Kent Hospital. Vitalité Health Network is actively working to address staffing gaps and ensure access to essential healthcare services for the communities it serves.
New Brunswick Government Support for Healthcare
Healthcare remains a top priority for the New Brunswick government. Since April 1, 2025, the government has welcomed additional health-care professionals to the province, demonstrating a commitment to strengthening the healthcare system.