Government of New Brunswick
Health

Regional Health Authority Elections
in New Brunswick

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What services do health authorities provide?

New Brunswick has two regional health authorities (RHAs), Vitalité Health Network and Horizon Health Network, which are responsible for managing and delivering health care services in the province.

These services include community health and extra mural services, addictions and mental health services as well as public health services which are provided in a variety of settings including hospitals, schools, clinics and at home.

How are health authorities managed?

Health authorities are managed by board members who are responsible for overseeing health care services for the entire province. 

Why is government changing legislation to enable board members to be elected?

In an effort to bring more accountability and transparency to the management of health authorities, government has recently amended the Regional Health Authorities Act to enable the election of members to regional health authority boards.

How were board members selected previously?

Previously, all board members were appointed by the Lieutenant-Governor in Council.

Why is it important to elect board members?

The election of board members will strengthen regional representation, and help our health care system to be more integrated, efficient, and run for the benefit of all New Brunswickers.

The election of board members provides an opportunity for local communities to have input into health care management and puts the onus on communities to take an active interest in ensuring that their representatives are active, informed and qualified to undertake their duties as board members.

New Brunswickers are strongly encouraged to participate in this process as candidates and voters.

When will the election take place?

Election of board members to RHA boards will coincide with the 2012 municipal elections.

How will each board be made up?

Each board is comprised of 15 voting members, eight of whom are elected and seven of whom are appointed by the Minister of Health.

What are the electoral boundaries?

Each RHA is divided into eight sub-zones, created by dividing the four zones within it into two sub-zones. There will be two representatives elected from each zone.

What rules govern these elections?

  • Eligibility to vote in each of the sub-zones is limited to persons whose primary residence is within that sub-zone;

  • Candidates for seats on RHA boards are required to have and maintain their primary residence within the sub-zone they represent;

  • Board members who transfer their primary residence outside their sub-zone or who are otherwise unable  or unwilling to perform their duties as board members will have their seats vacated;

  • Vacant seats will be filled by appointment of the Minister of Health with an individual whose primary residence is in the vacated sub-zone; and

  • Employees of RHAs, employees of the Department of Health, members and employees of the New Brunswick Health Council, directors, officers or employees of Ambulance New Brunswick Inc. or FacilicorpNB Ltd., persons holding privileges at a hospital within New Brunswick, Senators, Members of Parliament, and Members of the Legislative Assembly are not permitted to be candidates for RHA boards.

What are the responsibilities of board members?

Board members will be responsible to operate the health system not simply in the best interest of their local area but as an integrated and efficient system which benefits all New Brunswickers.

The RHA boards will meet a minimum of four times per year, and possibly more often, as necessary. 

How will board members be compensated?

Currently, the per diem for RHA board members is set at $500 plus travel expenses. 

Where can I get more information?

Those interested in running are encouraged to contact 1-888-858-VOTE (8683) for more information.