Northern Zone Health Ambassador strengthens community connections this summer

This summer, communities across the Northern Zone were greeted by a familiar face at local events, markets and festivals. Returning for her second summer as a Nova Scotia Health Summer Health Ambassador, Roslyn George spent her summer helping people better understand their care options, connect with services and explore tools like the YourHealthNS app.

Raised in Pictou County and with experience working as a health support aide in the Aberdeen Hospital emergency department, Roslyn saw first-hand some of the difficulties people can experience when navigating the healthcare system. The health ambassador role gave her a way to give back to her community while gaining valuable experience toward her future career in medicine.

Currently studying biochemistry at Dalhousie University, Roslyn says the summer helped bridge the gap between classroom learning and real-world experience. “It’s one thing to understand health in a textbook, but another to hear directly from people about what they need to feel supported when it comes to care,” she says.

A key part of her work involved showing community members how the YourHealthNS app can make care easier to navigate. The app allows users to book appointments, view lab results, access virtual care and store personal health information like immunization records. “Whether you live in a city or a rural community, the app helps people take control of their health, stay organized and make informed decisions,” Roslyn shares.

She especially enjoyed helping seniors learn to use the app. “Watching their confidence grow was powerful,” she says. “Seeing their excitement when they realized they could check their results or appointments right from their device—that was really special.”

Roslyn also spoke at various Nova Scotia Health community information sessions across the Northern Zone where she presented on the YourHealthNS app. “These sessions were incredibly informative and helped me learn more about the unique needs of each community. They also gave me a chance to strengthen my public speaking skills and appreciate all the amazing work that is being done across the organization.”

One of her most memorable moments came closer to home, at her local seniors’ club. Guiding members step by step through the app setup, she saw their confidence grow in real time. “It was a powerful reminder of how important hands-on support is in helping people feel connected to their care,” she says.

Reflecting on the experience, Roslyn says it has strengthened her commitment to a future career in medicine. “I’ve learned how important health literacy and accessibility are. Helping people feel more comfortable and connected with their care makes a real difference and that’s something I’ll carry forward in everything I do.”

Thank you, Roslyn, for your dedication and enthusiasm this summer. We look forward to seeing your future healthcare endeavours and continuing to make a difference in the lives of Nova Scotians!

Photo of Roslyn George sharing information about health services and the YourHealthNS app with a community member at a Northern Zone event this summer.