The single authority now running the health care system in Newfoundland and Labrador says it has laid the foundation to transform the health care system.
Robert Andrews, chair of the board, says in just one year, they have made progress to improve the health and health outcomes of their patients, clients and long-term care residents.
The system used to be run by four separate boards, but they have since amalgamated into one.
One of the toughest challenges facing managers is finding nurses, doctors and others to meet demand.
Andrews says as a result of extensive initiatives, NL Health Services has recruited more than 200 internationally-educated nurses to the province since 2022 while over 600 more are being pursued. As well, over 200 bachelor of nursing students, and close to 170 practical nursing students have accepted job offers and are working in the NL system.
The average number of emergency department closures and diversions in Category B sites decreased to 1081 hours in 2023-24, a reduction from 1,684 hours in 2022-23.
Board chair Andrews says they are also doing things in the correctional system.
They have begun Hep C treatment and testing in correctional facilities across NL. They are also testing for HIV and syphilis.