The New Brunswick Medical Society (NBMS) is undergoing a meaningful evolution in how it governs, engages, and supports its members. Following two years of member consultation and a detailed report with recommendations prepared by the Governance Review Committee, NBMS membership approved sweeping governance reforms at its 2024 Annual General Meeting (AGM) held October 5. These changes position the NBMS to be more strategic, efficient, and aligned with the needs of New Brunswick physicians.
Member-Driven Change
The journey began in 2022, when the Governance Review Committee embarked on a comprehensive review of NBMS’s structures. Through extensive consultation, including four regional forums earlier this year, members shared their insights on how NBMS governance could evolve to better support its mission.
The committee’s recommendations, unanimously endorsed by the Board on June 1, 2024, included proposals for a leaner Board structure, updated committees, and revised policies. These recommendations were presented to the membership at the AGM and approved with 88% voting in favor.
Committee Chair, Dr. Ann Collins, shared that the member endorsement at the AGM signalled a renewed focus on the future. “The membership’s acceptance of the GRC’s recommendations indicates to me their desire to make the NBMS an even more strategic, efficient and inclusive organization.”
Transformative Changes
The reforms reflect a commitment to maintaining respect and member-focused engagement while streamlining operations. Key updates include:
- Board Composition: The Board will be reduced from 20 voting members plus observers to 12, ensuring more focused and strategic decision-making.
- Committee Structure: Committees will be redefined and modernized to leverage member expertise while optimizing their time and energy.
- Membership Categories and Policies: Updated to reflect the diverse roles and contributions of physicians within the NBMS.
Implementation and Engagement
The NBMS team has developed a detailed transition plan, including timelines for implementing these changes. This plan outlines steps to approve new committee terms of reference, canvass for nominations to the Board and committees, and ensure transparent communication with members.
A critical goal of this transition is respecting and engaging current contributors. The Nominations & Appointments Committee (NAC), led by Dr. Alison Kennedy, will play a vital role in identifying candidates for the new Board and committees. The NAC will aim to balance corporate continuity with fresh perspectives, reflecting a range of member interests.
Why Governance Matters
Strong governance is the backbone of any effective organization. It ensures the NBMS remains responsive to the challenges faced by its members and the health-care system. These updates will allow the NBMS to maximize the time, energy, and expertise of its members while driving meaningful progress for physicians and patients alike.
Looking Ahead
As we move forward, the NBMS remains dedicated to supporting our members while advocating for a stronger health-care system. These governance updates represent a significant step in aligning our structure with our strategic priorities, ensuring that every physician’s voice contributes meaningfully to our collective mission.
Committee Vice Chair, Dr. Carl Boucher reaffirmed this principle. “The most important aspect of our transition will be to ensure we stay in touch with membership concerns in all corners of the province. Populating our committees and Board with members that reflect the diverse scope of our membership will be core to the success of ensuring members feel understood and properly represented.”
This article highlights the importance of governance and member involvement in shaping the NBMS’s future. If you’d like to learn more about these changes or get involved, please reach out to Tim Ross, General Counsel, at tross@nbms.nb.ca.
Tim Ross, General Counsel
