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NL Health Services takes next step in health system transformation with new workforce framework.
Action and leadership from NL Health Services
NL Health Services has embarked on the next phase of health system transformation for our province with the launch of the Health Human Resources (HHR) Framework for Change, a strategic plan to strengthen and stabilize the health workforce across Newfoundland and Labrador.
This work reflects our ongoing commitment to put people first: patients, residents, communities, and the staff who care for them every day. From improving recruitment processes to strengthening leadership and creating inclusive, supportive workplaces, we are already taking steps to bring this plan to life.
“Today’s HHR framework is our guide to address current challenges and lay the foundation for a stronger, more resilient workforce in the future. At NL Health Services, we believe our people are our greatest strength. Our team members across every discipline and in every community make care possible every single day.”
Dr. Pat Parfrey, CEO, NL Health Services
From planning to implementation
The HHR Framework for Change was presented earlier this year during the final meeting of the Premier’s Table on Health Transformation. Established in 2022, the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador created the Premier’s Table to oversee the implementation of Health Accord NL, a 10-year roadmap to build a better, more sustainable health system for everyone.
As part of this work, 12 specialized sub-tables were formed to focus on transformation priorities, including cardiovascular care, digital health, mental health and addictions, and health human resources. The Health Human Resources sub-table, co-chaired by Debbie Molloy, vice president of Human Resources at NL Health Services, and the assistant deputy minister of Professional Services and Workforce Planning, presented key milestones, including recruitment numbers for registered nurses and nurse practitioners, as well as the introduction of a new workforce planning tool, developed with Deloitte, to help forecast future staffing needs across the province.
What the HHR Framework for Change means for us
Simply put, this framework is a roadmap for our collective progress. It will guide us as we work to build a stronger, more stable health-care workforce for Newfoundland and Labrador, now and into the future.
Informed by feedback from over 40 groups, including educational institutions, unions, Indigenous partners, and regulatory bodies, it outlines several key areas:
Quality workplaces that support well-being, safety, and inclusion
Workforce supply to increase recruitment and expand local training
Improved capacity so staff can work to their full potential
Leadership and management to grow skilled leaders
Human resource planning based on reliable data and forecasts
Clear communication with staff, students, and communities
Tailored solutions to meet the unique needs of rural and remote communities
Feedback gathered throughout the consultation process reflected strong support for the plan’s objectives, with groups emphasizing the need for sustained government leadership, coordinated action and continued engagement with partners and communities.
Next steps: moving from vision to reality
With the conclusion of the Premier’s Table on Health Transformation, the next phase of implementation for NL Health Services has begun.
We have already taken this plan and turned it into action by improving job postings and recruitment processes, supporting staff development and leadership growth, and working with schools and communities to grow a more sustainable local workforce.
This is just the beginning. As we move forward, we continue to listen to our staff, partners, patients, residents, and communities, and adjust our efforts to meet future needs as they arise.
Together, we are shaping a stronger health system that works for everyone in Newfoundland and Labrador.
“Health Accord NL laid the foundation for transforming our health-care system, and the HHR Framework is a critical step forward in that work. Turning these recommendations into action will require ongoing collaboration across the system, and we look forward to working with the provincial government and our partners to move this work forward.”
Dr. Pat Parfrey, CEO, NL Health Services
To learn more about how health care is being transformed in Newfoundland and Labrador visit
