Nova Scotia Health and IWK Health

The Nova Scotia Department of Health and Wellness is dedicated to helping the province's residents maintain and improve their health. For many Nova Scotians, the journey to better health and care begins with the services and leadership we provide. We understand that navigating healthcare can be complex, which is why we fund a comprehensive range of services and work diligently to ensure they are high-quality and accessible to everyone, regardless of where they live in the province. Our core mission is to support citizens by promoting overall health and wellbeing, actively working to reduce health risks, and establishing the essential policies, legislation, and standards that guide the entire healthcare system. We are the strategic force behind our key partners, the Nova Scotia Health Authority (NSHA) and the IWK Health Centre, empowering them to deliver outstanding direct healthcare and foster healthier communities across the province.

Our commitment extends to the direct administration of vital healthcare programs that citizens rely on every day. This includes the critical services of Emergency Health Services (EHS), the invaluable advice from 811 telecare, and the financial support provided through Seniors' and Family Pharmacare programs. We recognize that a healthy population is the foundation of a thriving province. That's why we also oversee the Office of the Chief Medical Officer of Health, which provides public health leadership, and the Office of Healthcare Professionals Recruitment, which is focused on attracting and retaining the skilled professionals our communities need. By investing in these core areas, we aim to build a sustainable, responsive, and patient-centered healthcare system that not only treats illness but also proactively supports the long-term health and wellness of all Nova Scotians, ensuring a healthier future for generations to come.