"Since the initiative was announced in April, most of the required structural changes have been made, and the organizations have now officially assumed their responsibilities," said the minister.

One of the major elements of the reorganization is the establishment of the new Provincial Health Services Authority (PHSA) which now has responsibility for the Hillsborough Hospital, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Provincial Addictions Services and Prince County Hospital.

"Bringing specialized secondary services together in the PHSA provides us with new opportunities to coordinate the planning and delivery of provincial specialty services and to increase our focus on quality, access, and utilization of these specialized resources," said Minister Ballem.

The four Regional Health Authorities have responsibility for a wide range of services including: primary health care, community hospital services, home care, long- term care, child protection and foster care, adult protection, community mental health, community addiction services, social assistance, disability support programs, housing, children's dental health, healthy child development, adoptions and other services.

Minister Ballem advised that restructuring initiatives will have several benefits for Regional Health Authorities. "All Regions now have the same clear mandate to plan and deliver primary health and social services, and to achieve a greater focus on wellness and children's health," said the minister. "The amalgamation of the Eastern Kings and Southern Kings Regions into one new Kings Health Region has created a more balanced regional system."

Reorganization of the Department of Health and Social Services reflects the role of the Department, which is to support the work of the Regions and the PHSA through leadership in innovation and continuous improvement, and to provide high quality administrative and regulatory services.

Minister Ballem advised that the restructuring initiative supports the implementation of the five-year strategic plan for the Health and Social Services System. "With the official transfer of responsibilities to the restructured organizations this week, we have reached a major planning milestone," said the minister. "I'd like to thank board members, staff and physicians for their support and cooperation during this transition to an improved structure which supports wellness and sustainabiliy," he said.