Northern Zone’s ongoing psychiatry recruitment success story

Northern Zone Mental Health and Addictions Program has recently welcomed three psychiatrists, who will join their seasoned team of medical specialists and Mental Health clinicians. Dr. Lilly Lines, Dr. Adedamola Fasehun and Dr. Tareq Abdel Ghani – who have all arrived since September 2023 – are very happy to settle into their homes and workplaces in the Northern Zone. The zone serves people in Colchester County, Pictou County, Cumberland County and the Municipality of East Hants. 

The Northern Zone Department of Psychiatry has had great recruitment success over the last three years, thanks to the efforts of Dr. Hugh Maguire, head of Psychiatry for the zone. Dr. Maguire stated, “I couldn’t be happier with our recruitment success. I am so grateful to have had nine excellent psychiatrists join us in recent years.”  All doctors in the department, no matter where their home clinic is located, participate in a Northern Zone-wide model of care, supporting the needs of individuals, families and communities throughout the zone.

The zone’s most recent addition, Dr. Tareq Abdel Ghani, has recently moved here from Ireland. Dr. Abdel Ghani is settling in very well here in Nova Scotia – and notes it is a place he proudly calls home. Abdel Ghani stated: “I am thrilled to be working in Amherst, here in the Northern Zone, with such welcoming, dedicated colleagues. It’s never easy moving one’s career and family, especially across the Atlantic, but the team here has made the transition a real pleasure.” Dr. Abdel Ghani also noted, “Special thanks go to Dr. Hugh Maguire for his support and guidance.”

The growth of the Psychiatry Department marks another significant milestone in our journey toward providing comprehensive, evidence-informed mental health and addiction care to the people of Northern Zone. Our commitment to collaboration and interdisciplinary care is a priority. Our psychiatrists work hand-in-hand with our dedicated Mental Health and Addictions staff; together, they strive to provide Nova Scotians with timely access to inpatient, outpatient, addiction and crisis services.

Photo of (L-R) Dr. Adedamola Fasehun and Dr. Tareq Abdel Ghani in front of the Cumberland Regional Health Care Centre in Amherst.