Prioritization of nursing home placements at Moncton hospitals

Release

Department of Social Development

September 09, 2025

FREDERICTON (GNB) – Social Development Minister Cindy Miles has approved the temporary prioritization of Moncton Hospital and Dr. Georges-L.-Dumont University Hospital Centre patients who are waiting for admission to nursing homes.

“New Brunswickers deserve care in the setting that best meets their needs,” said Miles. “That’s why our government is working closely with regional health authorities to improve patient flow, ease pressure on hospitals, and make sure those awaiting long-term care have access to the right supports when they need them most.”

Nursing home admissions are normally done chronologically, however the minister of social development is authorized to interrupt wait-list management processes if, over the previous seven days, hospital bed occupancy has exceeded 95 per cent and more than 25 per cent of those beds were alternate-level-of-care patients.

The alternate wait-list management process in the province’s eight regional hospitals can take effect for up to 120 days. After that time, the minister may consider whether it should be extended.

Additionally, Social Development may prioritize for nursing home admission people in the community who are deemed to be at exceptional risk with respect to health and safety. People approved under this process will supersede admissions from hospitals.

“Together, we are working to build a New Brunswick where seniors can age with dignity,” said Lyne Chantal Boudreau, minister responsible for seniors. “It is essential for us that our residents receive the right support, at the right time and from the right people.”

The province has 78 licensed nursing homes, providing 5,373 beds. There are 431 adult residential facilities offering care and services to about 7,600 residents. A total of 640 nursing home beds have been awarded since 2021 under the 2018–2023 Nursing Home Plan; 460 of those beds have opened, with another 180 currently under construction.

Social Development is working with community partners to develop a new long-term care plan, including a five-year nursing home plan. It is expected to be released later this fall.