Premier Susan Holt called it an announcement 40 years in the making.
New Brunswick is expanding health care coverage to fund abortion surgeries in clinics.
During an announcement in Fredericton, Holt said it is an important first step to provide greater access.
“We believe that abortion is health care and everyone deserves access to the care that they need, when and where they need it.”
The changes align New Brunswick with most other provinces in covering the cost, whether an abortion is performed in a hospital or a clinic.
Prior to this, the province covered hospital only surgeries.
“Improved access to medical and surgical abortion is essential for equitable health care for all, and breaking down barriers is key to achieving it,” said Lyne Chantal Boudreau, minister responsible for women’s equality. “We will work with the Department of Health, the regional health authorities and community organizations to ensure New Brunswickers have the access, information and support they need for informed health choices.”
The Department of Health will now begin working to establish how these services will be delivered in communities.
There are two types of abortion services available in New Brunswick. Medical abortions – by prescription medications. Currently, surgical abortions are only available in three hospitals: the Chaleur Regional Hospital, the Moncton Hospital and the Dr. Georges-L.-Dumont University Hospital Centre.
