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With the Heart of Health series, we’re shining a light on the many dedicated employees, physicians, learners and volunteers who make Nova Scotia Health a remarkable place to work and receive care. Today, we’re featuring Luke MacMillan, occupational health, safety and wellness manager.
Luke MacMillan is all about supporting the health of the workforce at Nova Scotia Health to create a ripple effect reaching families, teams and, ultimately, patients.
Luke is a provincial manager of occupational wellness and has spent nearly two years leading programs to promote health and well-being among thousands of staff.
He works remotely in the Halifax area he and his team offer programs and services in an in-person capacity, provincially.
“Our work focuses on prevention, education and system-level initiatives, but we’re also there in crisis scenarios,” he explains. “It’s about creating healthier environments.”
The role builds on his earlier civilian career with the Canadian Armed Forces, where he managed a team of health promotion specialists. He started as a specialist at and later became a manager of the health promotion team.
“When I started promoting health, I realized prevention support is extremely powerful,” Luke says. “When staff are well and feel supported, patients get better care. That ripple effect is what pushed me into this role.”
He points out that occupational wellness programs now include training on psychological safety, stress management, and trauma literacy. He sees these efforts as essential to supporting staff resilience.
“Resilience isn’t about just pushing harder,” he notes. “People need time to recover. They need trust, transparency and psychological safety. Healthier staff members mean better patient care.”
Raised in Fredericton, New Brunswick, says his mother’s 38-year nursing career also shaped his perspective on the need for stronger systems to sustain health and wellness.
Despite the challenges of serving such a large workforce, Luke says the rewards are clear.
“Even seemingly trivial engagements can have a large effect on people and families,” he says. “We might affect one person, but they can impact their team, their family, and how they go home during the holidays. That’s what brings me the most joy.”
Positive feedback from staff keeps him motivated.
“Staff are craving this type of support,” Luke points out. “It’s easy to stay motivated when you see how well it’s received; my team is incredible, they’re passionate about seeing staff become healthier. ”
Luke’s mantra is healthier workers means healthier communities.
“We’re passionate about supporting staff,” he says, “and that support is felt by patients too.”
We want to learn and share your stories. Whether you’ve had a defining moment that reaffirmed your purpose or want to recognize a colleague who embodies the heart of health, share your story with us. E-mail: keith1.corcoran@nshealth.ca
Photo of Luke MacMillan