The four Premiers in the Atlantic region have put their heads together to try to come up with a way to put a dent in a big problem in our health care system. They are establishing a “regional accord” to help recruit and retain health care professionals.

The Newfoundland and Labrador Medical Association says one in five people in this province is without a family doctor.

The four Atlantic provinces will collaborate on attracting health care professionals to the region and work together to develop and maintain specialized care services, while limiting duplication.

All four provinces are experiencing challenges recruiting and retaining doctors and other health care professionals. This province is involved in its own Health Accord process to help come up with new ways to deliver health care services.

The provinces will also collaborate on the introduction of new technology and improving health care delivery. The Accord of Guiding Principles was endorsed by each of the region’s premiers in a meeting last week.