A number of measures have been taken to rethink the training offer, improve the orientation process, eliminate tasks and procedures without added value, ensure access to technological tools, allow greater flexibility in organizing the schedule and tools for collecting patient experiences to develop.

Counseling days are now organized twice a year. An advisory committee of four nurses will also be established by the end of February.

“We want to get closer to our caregivers, understand their needs and involve them more in decision-making”explains Shelley Robichaud, director of primary health care.

The Vitalité Health Network currently has 45 nursing positions and twelve vacancies. A manager position has been added to support and oversee the profession. A mentoring program will be set up by May 2023 to ensure personal support and knowledge sharing.

“Primary care nurses with high levels of organizational support are more likely to be satisfied with their jobs.”emphasizes Mrs Robichaud.

These initiatives are conducted as part of the EXTRA training program developed by Health Excellence Canada. The team involved in the project consists of Shelley Robichaud, Nicole Labrie, Head of IP Practice (retired since July 2022), Nicole Brideau, Nurse Practitioner, Véronique Landry, Professor at Université de Moncton and Nurse Practitioner, and just two patient partners, André Daigle and Joanne Theriault-Michaud.

They traveled to Ottawa on February 8-10 to present their approach to managers of other health networks across the country. During the event, Ms. Robichaud was awarded the title of Best of Year, an award that recognizes her capacity for innovation and long-standing commitment to efforts to transform the healthcare system.

This project is part of Vitalité Health Network’s efforts to provide its employees with an attractive environment to ensure their well-being and retention.

Photo 1: Shelley Robichaud, Head of Primary Health Care.
Photo 2: André Daigle, Nicole Brideau, Shelley Robichaud and Véronique Landry during the presentation of the EXTRA project in Ottawa.