Hani Hakam fuels improvements in patient care

Hani Hakam has spent nearly 12 years strengthening primary healthcare in Nova Scotia, building a career defined by problem‑solving and patient‑focused change.  

Hani holds a bachelor’s degree in dental medicine and surgery from Misr International University in Cairo, Egypt, a six-year program combining academic learning with clinical experience.  

After moving to Nova Scotia, he began his journey with Nova Scotia Health as a medical laboratory assistant in blood collection clinics across the Halifax Regional Municipality and later at the Queen Elizabeth II Health Sciences Centre’s core lab.

From there, he took on new challenges at the Regional Tissue Bank, where he worked in organ and tissue donation from 2019 to 2024, advancing from tissue bank assistant to specialist, a role he maintains on a casual basis.  

In October 2024, Hani transitioned into his current role as a primary healthcare co-ordinator and practice facilitator in the Colchester-East Hants area, bringing his wealth of knowledge and experience to the team.  

As a practice facilitator, Hani acts as a connector, strategist and problem solver. “I help support change management strategies in primary care,” he says. “Using best-practice research, quality measures and collaboration with system partners, I work with healthcare providers to find opportunities to improve their practice for their teams and their patients. I use both quantitative and qualitative methods to evaluate and enhance care.”  

At the heart of Hani’s role is a deep commitment to improving patient outcomes. “Primary care is the foundation of healthcare. It provides continuous, comprehensive and coordinated services for Nova Scotians and their families,” Hani says. “Like a driving gear, I provide the energy and direction that keeps the team moving in sync toward shared goals. My focus is on seamless coordination and continuous improvement in patient-centred care.”  

For Hani, the most rewarding part of the work is knowing he’s contributing to Nova Scotia Health’s larger mission of ensuring every Nova Scotian has a permanent health home. “It’s about giving people the high-quality care they deserve,” he says.  

Hani’s efforts don’t go unnoticed. One moment that stands out came during a day at the Elmsdale Medical Centre, when a family physician told him: “Hani, I just wanted to tell you we appreciate what you do for us. You get things done.” The simple acknowledgement affirmed the impact of his work.  

People might be surprised to learn just how much happens behind the scenes in his role. “When I explain the amount of work involved to enhance access and continuity, it often gives people a new appreciation for how much goes into strengthening primary care,” Hani explains.

Through every role, Hani built a career centered on connection, improvement and impact. As a practice facilitator, he continues to drive meaningful change, ensuring providers can focus on what matters most: delivering the best care possible to patients and families. 

Photo of Hani Hakam