I am Doug Mullin, running for the Regional Health Authority election to represent Subsection B6. If elected, this means I would serve on the Board of Directors for Horizon Health Network. I want to represent your concerns as your Board Member.

I am choosing to run because I am a relatively healthy person. I have no medical problems of which I am aware. However, I hear friends and acquiantances complain about problems in our health care system. I want to be a part of the solution. I want our system to be well-managed and accessible to all.

My health issues are structural issues, of primary concern:

1. access to family medicine. For years, I have been on a waiting list to get a family doctor in my community. Fortunately I do not have health problems that require immediate attention. I know there are others in the same boat.

2. access to health benefits. I have friends who purchase prescriptions out of pocket because they do not have private benefits through their job. The choice between necessary prescriptions and food and rent shouldn’t have to be made.

3. quality care in a timely fashion. I have friends who tell me that wait time in the ER at DECH are long. It has been suggested to me to drive to Oromocto in times of emergency. Everyone has heard horror stories of waiting 6, 12, 18 hours to see a doctor.

I know there are solutions to these. And I believe the best solutions come from the community. I want to listen to your concerns to learn how to represent you on the Board of Directors for Horizon Health Network.

What are your biggest concerns for health in New Brunswick, in particular, Fredericton, New Maryland, Oromocto, Gagetown, Cambridge Narrows, Chipman, Minto, Doaktown, Upper Miramichi?