Mary-Anne Robinson, chief executive officer of the College and Association of Registered Nurses of Alberta (CARNA), was a member of the advisory committee which prepared the health consultation report released today.
"The recommendations focus on a holistic approach to health that fits with the principles of the registered nursing profession and puts people first," says Robinson. "The report recognizes the principles of the Canada Health Act and then adds made in Alberta principles which recognize the contemporary expectations of Albertans and the flexibility needed to support a patient-centered approach to health-care delivery."
Adds Robinson, "During the consultation process, Albertans urged government to better integrate policy and decision-making across government in order to address the social determinants of health and create a system that is easier to navigate. They also placed a priority on primary care, continuing care and mental health which are areas where registered nurses can and do play essential roles."