Chats on Change takes you to the heart of Nova Scotia Health’s transformation through conversations with our people. Hosted by interim President and CEO Karen Oldfield, this podcast explores thought-provoking ideas and bold initiatives shaping a new era of healthcare in Nova Scotia.
Episodes:
Innovators in residence and future-proofing care
In this episode of "Chats On Change," interim CEO Karen Oldfield hosts a conversation with three distinguished doctors who are also innovators in residence at Nova Scotia Health. Doctor Karen Cross, a plastic and reconstructive surgeon, leads the Wound Innovation Collaborative and co-founded Mimosa Diagnostics to enhance skin health through early interventions. Doctor Amanda Caissie, head of Dalhousie University's Department of Radiation Oncology, focuses on data standardization and artificial intelligence in radiation oncology to improve patient care. Doctor Michael Dunbar, an orthopedic surgeon, works on increasing the precision of surgical techniques using robotics and mobile technology.
The discussion highlights the transformative impact of data and digital solutions on patient care in Nova Scotia. The doctors emphasize the importance of data standardization, access to care, and the need for a unified electronic medical record system. They also address the challenges of procurement and the significance of adopting Canadian innovation to improve the health system. This episode provides valuable insights into how innovative approaches are shaping the future of healthcare in the region.
Talking healthcare with special guest, journalist Andre Picard
In this episode of Chats on Change, interim Nova Scotia Health CEO Karen Oldfield sits down with acclaimed health journalist André Picard for a wide-ranging discussion on the state of Canada’s healthcare system. As one of the country’s most respected voices on health policy, Picard shares his insights on interprovincial barriers, healthcare funding, workforce challenges, and the need for greater national coordination. The conversation explores innovative approaches happening in Nova Scotia, including physician mobility, a new internal travel nurse program, and the role of technology in modernizing care.
Picard also highlights lessons Canada can learn from European healthcare models, emphasizing the importance of data integration, prevention-focused care, and streamlined services. He and Oldfield discuss the power of artificial intelligence, predictive analytics, and how the healthcare system must evolve to remain sustainable. Thought-provoking and insightful, this episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the future of Canadian healthcare.
Links:
www.andrepicard.com
www.nshealth.ca/news-and-notices/…-insights-katelyn
Recent Articles:
- If Canada is tearing down interprovincial barriers, let’s start with health care
www.theglobeandmail.com/opinion/artic…s-start-with/
- Canada needs a plan to help struggling caregivers
www.theglobeandmail.com/opinion/artic…g-caregivers/
- The first War on Drugs was a complete failure
www.theglobeandmail.com/opinion/artic…donald-trump/
- The Dutch and Danes have much to teach Canada about better health care
www.theglobeandmail.com/opinion/artic…-health-care/
- Does the Canada Health Act require reinterpretation, or a more fundamental rethink?
www.theglobeandmail.com/opinion/artic…on-or-a-more/
Episode 27 - Redeveloping healthcare infrastructure, transforming healthcare
In this episode of Chats on Change, interim Nova Scotia Health CEO Karen Oldfield welcomes Dave Benoit, CEO of Build Nova Scotia, for a deep dive into the province’s ambitious infrastructure projects. With a background in military leadership and healthcare planning, Dave shares insights into major developments, including hospital expansions in Cape Breton and the highly anticipated QEII redevelopment. He discusses how these projects are enhancing healthcare accessibility, driving economic growth, and creating long-term careers in skilled trades.
The conversation also covers the urgency of building modern healthcare facilities, the challenges of large-scale infrastructure, and the strategic planning behind Nova Scotia’s rapid growth. Dave highlights Build Nova Scotia’s role in shaping the province’s future while ensuring that projects are completed efficiently and at the right cost. Tune in for a fascinating discussion on how infrastructure is transforming healthcare for Nova Scotians.
Note: This episode was recorded in January 2025. In February 2025 (news.novascotia.ca/en/2025/02/19/q…struction-phase), the Government of Nova Scotia finalized its agreement with Plenary PCL Health to build the new acute care tower, part of the QEII Halifax Infirmary Expansion project.
LINK to Skilled Trades contact: www.nsapprenticeship.ca/get-started/p…%20apprentice.
LINK to photo of QEII Halifax Infirmary Expansion Project: www.nshealth.ca/sites/default/fil…jpg?itok=7Ol6mzB-
What is One Person, One Record - OPOR?
In this episode of Chats on Change, interim Nova Scotia Health CEO Karen Oldfield sits down with Dr. Julie Maranda, Chief Medical Information Officer, One Person, One Record, to discuss the transformative One Person One Record (OPOR) project. Dr. Miranda, an experienced physician and healthcare leader, shares insights from her extensive career, including past implementations of digital health systems. They explore how OPOR will streamline healthcare across the province by providing a unified digital health record—reducing errors, improving transparency, and ultimately enhancing patient care.
Dr. Maranda and Oldfield also discuss the challenges and opportunities of implementing a project of this scale, emphasizing the importance of change management and collaboration. With OPOR set to roll out in phases, they highlight the expected benefits for both healthcare providers and patients, particularly those in rural areas. Plus, Dr. Maranda shares her personal experiences of moving to Nova Scotia, her impressions of the province, and what she looks forward to exploring next.
Transforming Diagnostic Imaging: Increasing access across Nova Scotia
In this episode of Chats on Change, interim CEO Karen Oldfield speaks with Lewis Bedford, Sr. Director of Clinical Networks for Nova Scotia Health’s Diagnostic and Therapeutic Services Network, about transforming diagnostic imaging and its impact on patient care. Lewis shares insights into his four years leading innovation in diagnostic services, focusing on integrating provincial systems to streamline processes for MRIs, CT scans, and ultrasounds. He emphasizes the move from paper-based to digital systems, which is key to reducing wait times and ensuring equitable access for patients across the province. This conversation also highlights the collaborative efforts with co-leader Dr. Tim Mailman, whose expertise complements Lewis’s in reshaping diagnostic services. The discussion delves into the implementation of centralized electronic referral platform, the introduction of cutting-edge equipment such as relocatable MRIs, and partnerships to manage increasing demands. Lewis also addresses challenges like recruitment of medical radiation technologists and leveraging international talent to support Nova Scotia Health’s ambitious goals. The episode closes with a celebration of the dedicated frontline teams and an optimistic look at the continued evolution of diagnostic imaging in Nova Scotia. You can learn more about efforts to improve and transform diagnostic imaging access here. www.nshealth.ca/improving-diagnos…g-access-and-care
Introducing West Bedford Transitional Health
In this episode of Chats on Change, interim President and CEO Karen Oldfield sits down with Jason Shannon, President of Shannex Inc., a leader in senior living and healthcare services across Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, and Ontario. Together, they highlight Shannex's innovative initiatives, such as Parkland on the Common, and their groundbreaking new healthcare partnership with Nova Scotia Health - West Bedford Transitional Health.
Jason shares insights into creating vibrant, community-oriented spaces that prioritize patient-centered care and integrate cutting-edge technology to improve mobility and foster independence. This conversation highlights how collaboration and innovation are driving the future of healthcare, with a focus on restorative care that helps patients return home.
Links:
Digitizing healthcare in Nova Scotia, AI and YourHealthNS
In this episode of Chats on Change, Nova Scotia Health’s interim CEO Karen Oldfield sits down with Scott McKenna, Chief Information Officer, to discuss the transformative impact of digital innovation in health care. Scott shares insights into his journey since joining Nova Scotia Health, highlighting the success of the YourHealthNS app, which has already connected over half a million Nova Scotians to vital health resources and records. The conversation delves into the importance of empowering patients with accessible health data, building trust, and integrating systems to streamline care delivery.
Scott also outlines the future of digital health in Nova Scotia, from enhancing appointment scheduling and reminders to leveraging AI for better navigation of services. The discussion touches on efforts to bridge the digital divide, ensuring equal access for all Nova Scotians. Tune in to hear how these advancements are reshaping health care and what lies ahead for the province’s digital health strategy.
Episode 22 - Dr. Nicole Boutilier
In this episode of Chats on Change, Karen welcomes Dr. Nicole Boutilier, Executive Vice President of Medicine and Clinical Operations at Nova Scotia Health. With over 20 years of medical practice in rural Nova Scotia, Dr. Boutilier shares her journey and insights into driving systemic improvements in healthcare delivery. They discuss the concept of "operational excellence," emphasizing alignment, accountability, and a culture of continuous improvement. Dr. Boutilier explains how initiatives like the daily management system and huddle boards empower healthcare teams to solve problems collaboratively, creating efficiencies and enhancing care quality.
The conversation delves into significant achievements such as the progress toward primary care for all Nova Scotians, the impact of integrated health strategies, and the transformative potential of artificial intelligence in healthcare. Dr. Boutilier also highlights the innovative discharge hub initiative, which prioritizes patient transitions and home-based care. With a forward-looking approach, this episode offers a deep dive into the challenges and successes shaping healthcare in Nova Scotia.
Episode 21 - Dr. Jack Rasmussen
In this episode of Chats on Change, Dr. Jack Rasmussen, a plastic surgeon and critical care physician specializing in burn and wound care, speaks with Nova Scotia Health interim CEO Karen Oldfield. Dr. Rasmussen discusses his journey, from his upbringing in Antigonish to his medical training at Dalhousie University and specialized fellowship in burn care at Toronto’s Ross Tilley Burn Centre. Since joining Nova Scotia’s QEII Health Sciences Centre in 2018, he has been pivotal in transforming burn care across the Maritimes.
Dr. Rasmussen also delves into the advancements in burn care, including dermal regeneration templates and new grafting techniques, which significantly improve recovery outcomes and reduce the number of surgeries for patients with severe burns. He also discusses emerging technologies, such as laser therapy for scars, which he hopes to bring to Nova Scotia in the future. Additionally, he mentions the important support role played by the Nova Scotia Firefighters Burn Treatment Society, which helps fund crucial equipment and resources. Dr. Rasmussen shares his vision for advancing care through ongoing education initiatives, like the Burn Care Education Day, aimed at empowering healthcare providers across the Maritimes to deliver high-quality, localized burn care, minimizing the need for patients to travel to Halifax.
Episode 20 - Leila Bautista
In this episode of Chats on Change, Nova Scotia Health President and CEO Karen Oldfield sits down with Leila Bautista, a health promotion student at Dalhousie University, and discuss her role as a Health Ambassador for Nova Scotia Health. Leila, along with seven other students, spent the summer engaging with communities across the province to promote the YourHealthNS app and website. Leila shares her experiences attending community events, offering app demonstrations, and gathering feedback to help Nova Scotia Health better understand the public’s needs. In addition to being a student and Health Ambassador, Leila is also an active member of the Dartmouth Community Health Board and a dedicated volunteer. Tune in to hear about the meaningful connections she made, the feedback she gathered, and her vision for the future of health services in Nova Scotia.
Episode 19 - Dr. Jane Philpott and Dr. Nicole Boutilier
In this episode, Karen is joined by Dr. Nicole Boutilier, Executive Vice President of Medicine and Clinical Operations, and their special guest, Dr. Jane Philpott. Dr. Philpott, a renowned physician, educator, and former federal cabinet minister. Dr. Philpott shares her expertise on primary care accessibility and discusses her book, "Health for All." Tune in to learn more to learn how Dr. Philpott’s concepts can be applied in to improve healthcare in Nova Scotia.
Buy "Health for All" by Dr. Jane Philpott on Amazon, Indigo or listen on Audible
Episode 18 - Jennifer MacDougall
In this week’s episode of Chats on Change I’m joined by special co-host Chief Nursing Officer Annette Elliott Rose as we chat with Jenn MacDougall, the Director of Interprofessional Practice and Learning (often referred to as IPPL). In her role, Jenn helps nurses understand the many different career pathways available to them at Nova Scotia Health.
Listen as we discuss Jenn’s exciting career journey: from rural and community medicine, through to critical care, emergency, and trauma care and how she’s shifted focus to support Nova Scotia Health’s nurses in developing their own unique career journey.
Episode 17 - Bethany McCormick and Dr. Aaron Smith
Today Karen sits down with Bethany McCormick and Dr. Aaron Smith, the dynamic co-leaders of Northern Zone. Together, they navigate the intricate landscape of rural healthcare, discussing innovative solutions and community-driven initiatives that are reshaping the future of care. From pioneering urgent treatment centers to fostering tight-knit healthcare communities, Bethany and Aaron reveal the transformative power of listening, learning, and leading with confident humility."
Discover how data-driven decisions and front-line engagement propel the Northern Zone forward, addressing challenges with resilience and turning obstacles into opportunities. Through candid conversations and real-life examples, Bethany and Aaron share their leadership journey, offering valuable insights and lessons learned. As they reflect on their collective achievements and future aspirations, one truth becomes clear: behind every successful transformation lies a dedicated team committed to making a difference, one patient at a time.
Episode 16 - Sue Smith
Today on Chats on Change, Karen sits down with Sue Smith, the Chief Executive Officer and Registrar of the Nova Scotia College of Nursing. Sue talks about the history of the Nova Scotia College of Nursing, its role in nursing regulation, and its efforts in creating a unified nursing regulator in 2019. The conversation also touches on the challenges faced during this transformative process and the importance of open communication.
The episode then delves into recent initiatives undertaken by the Nova Scotia College of Nursing, particularly the groundbreaking move in 2023 to expedite licensure for internationally educated nurses from seven designated countries, including India, the Philippines, the UK, the U.S., Australia, New Zealand, and Nigeria. This innovative approach aimed to address the growing shortage of nurses in Nova Scotia. Sue Smith highlights the significant response to this initiative, with over 19,000 applicants, and emphasizes the importance of collaboration with key partners, including employers and government agencies, to streamline processes and facilitate the integration of internationally educated nurses into the workforce.
The podcast sheds light on the college's ongoing efforts to improve the application process, enhance communication, and address the diverse needs of nurses entering Nova Scotia. Sue Smith also discusses the impact of these initiatives during the COVID-19 pandemic, where the college facilitated the return of over 500 retired nurses to support vaccination efforts. The conversation underscores the commitment to ensuring a strong and diverse nursing workforce to meet the healthcare needs of Nova Scotia.
Episode 15 - Dr. Christy Bussey And Eileen MacGibbon
Today Karen hosts an engaging in a conversation with Eileen MacGibbon, VP of Operations, and Dr. Christy Bussey, Central Zone Medical Executive Director where they discuss their co-leadership model and the challenges and successes they've experienced over the past year and a half in Nova Scotia Health's busiest and most populous management zone.
The co-leads emphasize the importance of communication within their large and diverse zone, covering various sites, clinics, and specialties. They discuss their efforts to connect with staff through town halls, newsletters, and online communication, recognizing the need for visibility and engagement at all levels, including the front line.
They discuss driving change within the healthcare system, particularly in inpatient care and surgical access. The co-leads express pride in the teams' efforts to maximize inpatient capacity and improve access to surgery, acknowledging the complexity of such changes providing insights into the complexities of healthcare leadership, emphasizing the ongoing commitment to improving patient care and access.
Episode 14 - Annette Elliott Rose
In this episode, Karen introduces Dr. Annette Elliott Rose, the newly appointed Chief Nurse, Executive, and Vice President of Clinical Performance and Professional Practice at Nova Scotia Health. Annette, who recently joined from IWK, discusses her background and journey in nursing, from starting as a maternal newborn nurse to working in Inuit communities in Nunavut. We delve into Annette's extensive experience, including her role in developing and implementing the Provincial Health Workforce Strategy. Annette shares her vision for nursing in Nova Scotia, emphasizing the importance of understanding nurses' needs, promoting innovation, and reconnecting with the meaning and joy of nursing.
The conversation also touches on Annette's research in informal nurse-to-nurse mentorship and her recent work on perinatal care for pregnant women and newborns. Annette highlights her plans to address challenges faced by nurses, including improving working conditions, career development, and fostering a culture of collaboration and innovation.
Episode 13 - Dr. Robert Green
Dr. Green will share insight on his background, experiences, and the intricate details of Trauma Nova Scotia's multifaceted approach, encompassing clinical care, research, education, and policy. We'll also take a glimpse into the future of Trauma Nova Scotia, exploring plans to maintain and enhance the program's impact, improve efficiency, and extend collaboration beyond provincial borders, with an eye on the well-deserved accolades received and the positive impact on patients and healthcare workers alike.
Related content:
Trauma Nova Scotia's annual report:
www.trauma-ns.com/_files/ugd/bb84c…8f271d468169.pdf
Episode 12 - Jeff Fraser, Executive Director of Emergency Health Services and Natalie Borden, Senior Executive Director of Emergency Health Services
Today Karen welcomes Jeff Fraser, Executive Director of Emergency Health Services and Natalie Borden, Senior Executive Director of Emergency Health Services to discuss how Nova Scotia Health and EHS work as partners to provide ready, responsive, and reliable care.
Transcript
Episode 11 - Eunice Ojeabulu
Eunice Ojeabulu arrived in Nova Scotia poised to greet a health care recruiter and start a nursing career, both the recruiter and opportunity were too good to be true. Despite the shocking circumstances, Eunice continued on her journey to work as a Registered Nurse in Nova Scotia and also became an advocate for other internationally educated nurses. Soon, Eunice and I met at a Community Conversation stop in Cherry Brook and our chat set a path in motion to change things.
Contact:
Eunice Ojeabulu: steunice2001@yahoo.com
Tara Sampalli: Tara.Sampalli@nshealth.ca
Episode 10 - Dr. Christy Bussey, executive medical director for Central Zone
After years of waiting, the Province awarded the contract for One Patient, One Record (OPOR) on February 1. I hope you can hear my cheering from here! On this episode of the podcast I chat with Dr. Christy Bussey, executive medical director for Central Zone about OPOR and what it implementation means for patients and staff and physicians.
Transcription available here.
Epsiode 9 - NSH Interim CEO Karen Oldfield (Guest host Nicole Brooks)
Guest host Nicole Brooks talks to NSH Interim CEO Karen Oldfield about her experiences from the Community Healthcare Conversations where she joined Health and Wellness Minister Michelle Thompson, & Deputy Minister Jeannine Lagassé for community conversations across the province about the work underway to improve healthcare.
Transcription available here.
Epsiode 8 - Dr. Christine Short
Dr. Christine Short is a physician leader and academic clinician who is also the Senior Medical Director of Redevelopment for the Central Zone.
"This last year and a bit has been just non-stop, tremendous work by that redevelopment team and that’s why now we’re ready to run and we have the confidence that now that we know the new direction, we’ll be able to get things up and going. People will see changes and positive things happening very quickly."
Related links:
- https://buildns.ca/healthcare/more-faster-the-action-for-health-build/
- Christine.short@nshealth.ca
Transcript available upon request.
Episode 7 - Dr. Maria Alexiadis and Lindsay Cormier
In this episode, Karen is joined by Dr. Maria Alexiadis and Lindsay Cormier from the Primary Health Care and Chronic Disease Management Network to discuss the Access Sprint pilot project. The goal is to improve processes in primary care clinics staff have a better work-life balance, while also increasing access for patients who need healthcare. As Dr. Alexiadis puts it, this is a “win-win for both providers and patients.”
The word “Sprint” reflects how quickly the project is moving to meet its goal; beginning with five Primary Care clinics around the province. What’s learned in the first five clinics will then be applied to other Primary Care clinics, then to all clinics.
Epsiode 6 - Tara Sampalli from our Research and Innovation team and Grayson Fulmer with Physician Services
On this episode, Tara Sampalli from our Research and Innovation team and Grayson Fulmer with Physician Services, join me to explain how we are partnering with Dalhousie Family Medicine to pilot an approach to patient “onboarding” that will see those Dalhousie practices add 3,500 patients from the Need a Family Practice registry over four months.
Episode 5 - Dr. Jocelyn Foran
Today Karen welcomes Dr. Jocelyn Foran to discuss the culture at Nova Scotia Health and what we can do to make it a better place to work.
Transcript
Episode 4 - Nova Scotia Minister of Health and Wellness, Michelle Thompson
Nova Scotia Minister of Health and Wellness, Michelle Thompson, discusses how healthcare has changed since becoming a registered nurse and what her many conversations with Nova Scotia Health staff and physicians have taught her about what’s needed now to care for Nova Scotians. Minister Thompson and NSH CEO Karen Oldfield have an honest discussion about the challenges and successes found in delivering healthcare in Nova Scotia.
Episode 3 - Dr. Jan Sommers and RN Jenna Gallo
Today Karen welcomes Dr. Jan Sommers and RN Jenna Gallop to discuss VirtualEmergencyNS, a pilot project (originally spearheaded by nurse Jessica Langille) that launched in February where patients who consent to a virtual appointment have a consultation with an emergency-trained physician, supported by an on-site nurse or advanced care paramedic. The program is intended to reduce wait times for Nova Scotians visiting the emergency department with health concerns that can be appropriately treated through a virtual visit.
Episode 2 - Gordon Peckham and Dr. Kirk Magee
Karen welcomes Gordon Peckham and Dr. Kirk Magee to discuss the challenges and opportunities with the new Command Centre at the QEII Health Sciences Centre in Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada.
Episode 1 - Dr. Kevin Orrell, Deputy Minister and CEO of the new Office of Healthcare Professionals Recruitment
Today Karen welcomes Dr. Kevin Orrell, Deputy Minister and CEO of the new Office of Healthcare Professionals Recruitment in the Nova Scotia Government to discuss the challenges and opportunities for health care recruitment and retention in Nova Scotia.
YourHealthNS App
Much of Nova Scotia's healthcare program and service information is now available on the YourHealthNS mobile app. Download for free on the Apple Store and Android Apps for Google Play.
