A new local family health team established in Beaurivage

Richibucto, Thursday, May 21, 2026 - A new local family health team has been established in Beaurivage to improve access to primary care in Kent County.

Three physicians have come together in recent months to form this team, which is currently caring for nearly 3,250 patients.

Premier Susan Holt and Minister of Health Dr. John Dornan were in Richibucto on Wednesday to mark this important step forward.

As its capacity increases, the team is expected to be able to take on 1,000 additional patients over the next 12 to 18 months. It has already hired a licensed practical nurse, a social work graduate and three administrative support staff members. It also plans to add a registered nurse when the range of services is expanded.

Dr. Michelle LeBlanc explained that the rollout of the collaborative care model convinced her to postpone her retirement and devote more time to the development of primary care in Kent County.

“I have decided to continue practising for several more years, motivated by this initiative, which I find very stimulating,” she said.

Thirty-three local family health teams are now active in the communities served by Vitalité Health Network, helping provide patients with better access to the care they need.

“I want to acknowledge the commitment of the physicians and team members who have chosen to work together to improve access to care in northern Kent County,” said Dr. France Desrosiers, President and CEO of Vitalité Health Network. “This collaboration is a very concrete example of the vision we want to advance: primary health care that is more accessible, better coordinated and closer to communities.”