COVID-19 Visitor Information

Masking Policy

Nova Scotia Health is a mask friendly environment. Masking is not required but is encouraged in Nova Scotia Health facilities. Anyone who is symptomatic must wear a mask to enter a facility.

Masking requirements during clinical interactions will be based on a Point of Care Risk Assessment or if deemed required by specific programs and services. Signage will continue to be posted at those entrances. The Nova Scotia Health Respiratory Virus Safety Plan and Masking Guidance has been updated for spring and summer 2025 to reflect these changes.

All NS Health Long Term Care facilities follow provincial guidance, please check with the facility before visiting.

If you have any questions, you can reach out to the Emerging and Re-emerging Infections Network at ERINnetwork@nshealth.ca 

Attending a scheduled appointment within a Nova Scotia Health facility

• COVID-19 and respiratory screening starts with your appointment letter. Please refer to this letter prior to entering our facilities to ensure you are not exhibiting symptoms or risk associated with respiratory viruses.
   
• You may receive a call 48 hours prior to your appointment to complete respiratory screening and ensure you have all you need for your scheduled appointment.
   
• When you arrive, your treatment provider will complete screening questions related to respiratory viruses. Your treatment team will then determine how to best provide care and services, based on your screening outcomes.

Masking is still required in some Nova Scotia Health clinics and waiting areas. Your care team will ask you to don a mask in these areas and signs will be posted to indicate that masks are required.

Visitors

You can find our family presence information here.

What to Expect for Designated Caregivers in our Long Term Care Facilities

Designated caregivers can watch this instructional video to learn what to expect in our long term care facilities.

Also, view our COVID-19 Toolkit – Designated Caregivers in Long-term Care

Access Control

Access control measures remain in place at our facilities which includes limiting the number of entrances to our buildings. Please enter and exit at the identified access points.