Atlantic Ministers hope health arises in campaign

HALIFAX – Newfoundland and Labrador’s Health Minister Steve Kent says he’s disheartened so little public discussion so far in the federal campaign has centred on the growing problems provinces face in paying their health care bills.

He spoke following a meeting of the four Atlantic health ministers in Halifax on Wednesday.

Kent says the Atlantic provinces are united in their call for an adjustment to the health transfer payments formula that recognizes the region’s population is older and sicker than the rest of the country.

PEI Health Minister Doug Currie says he’s disappointed in the campaign, but hopeful the issue will soon come up.

Nova Scotia health minister Leo Glavine said the Atlantic ministers have to speak with a united voice on the health transfers issue, and make clear they need a partner in Ottawa to help them cope with a growing seniors population.

The four ministers said the main focus of their meeting’s discussion was on ways to reduce spending by making joint purchases.

New Brunswick health minister Victor Boudreau says his department is pioneering four joint purchases, including pharmaceuticals, anesthesia equipment, a servicing contract and ultrasound gear.

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