Meet Arjun Sethi, the system lead who’s helping to strengthen primary healthcare

Arjun Sethi began his career with a clear purpose: help shape a healthcare system to be more accessible, equitable, and responsive to the needs of Nova Scotians. In his role as system lead with Nova Scotia Health’s Primary Healthcare and Chronic Disease Management team, he works to turn that vision into reality through initiatives that expand access to care and strengthen services across the province.

“I have always been passionate about supporting people during their most vulnerable moments,” he says. “This passion led me to pursue a bachelor of science in biology at Dalhousie University, where I learned that meaningful improvements in healthcare require addressing both social factors and the complex systems that deliver care.”

That systems-based approach led Arjun to pursue a master of health administration at Dalhousie following his bachelor’s degree, where he deepened his understanding of health system operations.

“My draw to healthcare came from a mix of lived experience and professional exposure. While working in clinical roles and volunteering within my community, I developed an appreciation for the importance of culturally appropriate, patient-centered care,” says Arjun. “This pushed me to think beyond individual care and toward the systems that support it.”

As part of his graduate program, Arjun completed a work placement with Nova Scotia Health’s Primary Healthcare and Chronic Disease Management Clinical Network. 

“My residency with Nova Scotia Health was an unforgettable experience,” he says. “One of the most valuable aspects of the experience was the chance to build strong, authentic relationships across disciplines, zones and leadership levels.”

He worked on initiatives like clinic improvement tools, staff orientation and the Health Home Assessment pilot, blending analysis with stakeholder engagement and co-design.

“When a full-time system lead role opened up in the Primary Healthcare and Chronic Disease Management portfolio, I was ready to step into it with clarity, context, and strong working relationships already in place,” says Arjun.

Today, Arjun helps lead the planning and implementation of Primary Care Clinics across the province. These clinics support Nova Scotians on the Need a Family Practice Registry by offering timely access to care.

“My work involves collaborating with zone leadership, clinic teams and corporate service partners to ensure clinics are set up efficiently, staffed appropriately and aligned with provincial priorities,” says Arjun.

While the work is complex, the purpose keeps him grounded.

“What really drives me is the chance to be a part of something bigger than myself,” he says. “For me, the most meaningful part of this work is knowing that even behind the scenes co-ordination and planning can lead to better experiences and outcomes for patients.”

Looking ahead, Arjun is focused on continuing to help make improvements that transform care across our province. He hopes to help build a system that’s adaptable to the diverse needs of Nova Scotians, where care is always co-ordinated and connected. 

Arjun also encourages students entering healthcare to stay open but focus on what matters.

“Be open to where the journey might take you. Healthcare is a vast and evolving field, and the path isn’t always linear. Stay connected to your ‘why’ and let that purpose guide your decisions and ground you when things feel uncertain,” he says.

And as his own journey continues, Arjun remains focused on the values that guide his work.

“I’m grateful for the people, both in my personal and professional life, who have shaped my journey so far. I feel incredibly lucky to do work that is purposeful, and I’m excited for what’s ahead.” 

Photo of Arjun Sethi.