The engagement process for a new plan to improve the overall health of the province is now open to the public.

Minister John Abbott launched the engagement process of the Social and Economic Well-Being Plan on Monday.

The plan will focus on reducing and preventing poverty by providing financial assistance based on social and economic elements such as income and benefits, food security, and housing.

The idea was developed after a Health Accord NL report that suggested social and economic improvements could be made to better the health of Newfoundlanders and Labradorians.

Minister Abbott says the report has laid out “a framework” for the government to make changes and improve health care services. Abbott says those with poor health are often living in poverty, which is why the engagement process will focus on poverty reduction, prevention and early intervention, and the social determinants of health.

The engagement process will be conducted through online questionnaires, virtual and in-person consultations, and stakeholder meetings for individuals and organizations.

The provincial government hopes to release the plan in early 2023. The deadline to partake in the online engagement process is October 3.