Health care is a significant part of this year’s provincial budget.

Government is spending $4.1 billion on health care, representing 40 per cent of the overall budget.

Of that, $30 million is going toward hiring health care providers for the 19 existing family care teams, as well as adding new ones in the Baie Verte and Springdale region, Lewisporte, Portugal Cove-St. Phillip’s, and downtown St. John’s. More family care teams will be announced later this year.

$10 million will go toward the recruitment and retention of health care professionals.

Government is providing $620 million over 10 years to transform its health information management structure—which government says will ensure better connectivity between patients and health care providers.

Under infrastructure, $11 million has been allocated for work on the Cardiovascular and Stroke Institute, the St. Clare’s replacement, and a new long-term care centre in Bay St. George.

About $8 million in new funding is going toward adding more than 20 new drugs to the prescription drug program, which will help treat patients with cancer, lupus, sinus infections, and those needing a transplant.

Under mental health and addictions, $14 million has been given to expand options for people seeking help on that front.

And, $2 million has been allocated to increase seats in the faculty of medicine for Newfoundlanders and Labradorians.