Supporting providers, improving patient care: Meet Shannon Goucher, Practice Facilitator

For more than a decade, Shannon Goucher has been part of Nova Scotia Health, beginning her journey in administrative support roles from Digby to Middleton. All of that experience gave her insight into the inner workings of the healthcare system and inspired her to continue her healthcare journey, currently as a practice facilitator in the Western Zone.

Practice facilitators help improve clinic operations and patient care by addressing inefficiencies and fostering a culture of collaboration.  

Shannon was working at the Annapolis Collaborative Practice when she first had the chance to work alongside practice facilitators and see the positive changes they make in clinics.  

“Their work really inspired me, and when an opportunity opened up in my zone, I knew it was the right next step for me,” says Shannon.

Today, Shannon supports clinics from Annapolis Royal, all the way to Clare. She focuses on creating smoother, more efficient processes in primary care settings, especially through improving how Electronic Medical Record (EMR) systems are used in practices.

“My goal is to make day-to-day work easier for providers, which ultimately improves care for patients,” says Shannon.

At the heart of her work is a desire to make a tangible difference for others.  

“I’ve always loved finding ways to make a positive impact in someone’s day,” she says. “This role gives me the chance to help both providers and patients have a better experience in the primary healthcare system.”

Instead of focusing only on big, long-term projects, Shannon finds meaning in the day-to-day obstacles and solutions.

“Some of my proudest moments are the quick, everyday wins — when a provider comes to me with a frustration, and I’m able to solve it right then and there,” she says. “Those small moments can have a big impact.”

For Shannon, the personal aspect of her work is just as important as any technical solution. “A huge part of this role is building strong relationships with providers and clinic teams. Even the best EMR strategies won’t work without trust and connection. So, a lot of my success comes from listening, understanding and collaborating.”

That balance between technical expertise and human connection is what makes Shannon’s work meaningful, both to her and to the teams she supports. By helping providers work more effectively, she knows she is also helping patients receive the best care possible. 

Photo of Shannon Goucher, Practice Facilitator