No change in service at Charlotte County Hospital

There will be no change in services at theCharlotte County Hospital says an officialwithHorizon Health Network.

"Services at the Charlotte County Hospital will continue as usual," said Dr.EdouardHendriks, vice-president of medical, academic and research affairs for Horizon in a news release.

"That means the emergency department, in-patient services, dialysis, operating rooms everything currently in place will continue to operate as it does today."

The announcement comes after government and officials withHorizon Health Network met Friday with members of the Concerned Citizens of Charlotte Countyabout thefuture of the hospital.

• Surgery program at Charlotte County Hospital shutting down
• St. Stephen residents protest closure of hospital's operating room
• N.B. premier wants surgery program at Charlotte County Hospital kept open

The concerned citizens group hadbeen protesting the closure of the surgery program since itwas announced by Horizon Health in July.

Premier Brian Gallant said in a New Brunswick Day speech he wanted Horizon Health to keep program opened.

But now, no services will be reduced.

There wererecommendations from a community health assessment in 2013suggesting some services could be enhanced by maintaining 24 hour emergency room services,ambulatory care services and the strengthening of primary care services.

"The Charlotte County Hospital remains a vital part of the community, employing over 200 staff and physicians," Hendrikssaid.

"We have plans to enhance some services, mainly in primary care and are looking at a new primary care clinic using various health care professionals to provide services in the community."

The release statesHorizon doctorssupported enhancingout-patient and primary care services there and involvement in the possible development of outreach specialized clinics at the Charlotte County Hospital.