Nova Scotia's new health information system

Nova Scotia Health is implementing a new health information system to help improve how care is delivered across the province.   

IWK Health was the first to implement the system and in May the system rolled  out at Nova Scotia Health facilities in the Halifax Regional and West Hants municipalities, and and select provincial services from the Mental Health and Addictions Program.  

For the first time, patient records from IWK Health and Nova Scotia Health will be on one system, improving access to vital information for healthcare teams and patients.

 As this system is rolled out at other locations across Nova Scotia this fall, we will share more information and resources with you, keeping you informed of these changes and what they will mean for you. 

What to Expect

Older man with clinician

This new system will not change how patients, clients, or families prepare for appointments.  

We suggest you plan to arrive 10-15 minutes early for your appointment.  

As our teams get used to the new system, fewer appointments may initially be scheduled, and registration and appointments may take a little longer than usual.

If you have any feedback, compliments, complaints, or concerns about your care or treatment received within Nova Scotia Health, speak with a member of your care team. You may also contact Patient Relations at 1-844-884-4177. This number is toll-free anywhere in Nova Scotia.

Patients arriving for some clinics (e.g. dialysis) may have an identification band placed on their arm. These bands hold essential information and may be scanned by your care team. They can be removed after your appointment.

You may also notice people wearing purple vests in your care areas. These team members are there to support staff and physicians as they help make your health information more connected than ever.  

Key Benefits

For the most part, you may not notice many day-to-day changes in how care is delivered. Over time, this system will bring many important benefits, including: 

  • Your healthcare team will have a more complete and current picture of your health, to help them provide faster, more accurate, and better coordinated care. 
     
  • As healthcare providers add information to your digital (electronic) health record, it will be immediately available to other members of your healthcare team, wherever you receive care. 

Together, this improves patient safety, outcomes and your healthcare experience. 

NSH pharmacist at computer

As this system is rolled out at other locations across Nova Scotia, we will share more information and resources with you, keeping you informed of these changes and what they will mean for you.