Culturally Sensitive Care: Cape Breton Newcomer Clinic’s Impact After One Year

One year ago, an innovative healthcare clinic opened its doors in Cape Breton with the mission to meet the primary care needs of newcomers in the region. The Cape Breton Newcomer Primary Care Clinic, a partnership between Nova Scotia Health and Cape Breton University (CBU), is now celebrating its first anniversary, having made a significant difference in the lives of many who have newly arrived in the Cape Breton Regional Municipality (CBRM).

Since its inception in September 2023, the clinic has become a critical lifeline for newcomers who often arrive without a permanent primary care provider. In just one year, it has recorded 2,377 visits, supporting 720 patients from diverse backgrounds, offering culturally sensitive and accessible healthcare to those in need. From vaccine updates for young children to chronic care for older adults, the clinic’s services have been a cornerstone for families settling into their new lives in Cape Breton.

A Lifeline for Newcomers

The Cape Breton Newcomer Clinic provides culturally informed care. Through collaboration with key partners like the Cape Breton Island Centre for Immigration and YREACH Settlement Services, the clinic ensures patients can easily access care and get their appointments in a timely manner. This approach has been essential in reaching those who might otherwise face challenges in obtaining healthcare in their new community.

Primary Health Care, Eastern Zone Acting co-Director, Jennifer Kendrick, expressed her pride in the clinic's progress. "By offering safe, culturally sensitive healthcare to newcomers, we’re supporting their successful integration into the community and contributing to their overall health and well-being," she said.

For many patients, this personalized care is a crucial part of their adjustment to life in Canada. Interpreter services are available to help overcome language barriers, ensuring that no patient is left behind due to communication challenges. For those without fluency in English or French, this has meant the difference between isolation and receiving the care they need.

“We feel really comfortable coming to the Newcomer Clinic; everyone is so friendly,” shared Mr. Raleesh Kunhi Kandiyil, pictured with his wife, Mrs. Harsha Nellika Kunjiraman, and their 5-month-old daughter, Naveya Raleesh. “When you’re all alone in a new country, it can be hard, especially with a new baby. The staff take great care of us. They take the time to listen and explain everything.”

Meeting the Needs of Families

The demographics of the clinic’s patients reflect the diversity of newcomers to the region. Nearly 30% of those seen are children under five years old, many of whom require vaccinations to align with Nova Scotia’s immunization schedule.

“Dr. Cadegan never makes us feel rushed, and Nurse Brea is amazing at giving needles—she distracts the baby with bubbles, so Naveya doesn’t mind getting her vaccines. We’ve come here a few times now, and every visit has been a really good experience,” said Raleesh.

In terms of common health issues, many adult patients present with low B12 and iron levels, often due to vegetarian diets, while hypertension and diabetes are also frequent diagnoses. Recognizing the challenges newcomers face in maintaining traditional diets in Cape Breton, the clinic is actively working to recruit a full-time dietitian to provide nutritional guidance and support.

Over time, the clinic has developed expertise in migrant health, particularly in conditions that disproportionately affect certain cultures, such as sickle cell anemia, malignant hypertension, and malaria. Our team is also familiar with common medical terms from different countries, like “paracetamol” for Tylenol, which helps us communicate more effectively with our patients.

The clinic’s diverse team of female nurse practitioners (NPs) and registered nurses (RNs) provides culturally sensitive care to women, offering guidance on topics such as birth control and breastfeeding. The collaboration with Nova Scotia Health (NSH) allows the clinic to work closely with labs, diagnostic imaging, and finance teams to ensure patients receive the appropriate tests, often covered by insurance.

Recognizing that many families juggle work and care responsibilities, the clinic has extended its hours to operate six days a week, including four evenings, offering flexibility for working parents and individuals.

We have enhanced our services with specialized care, including Dr. Ziss dedicating half a day each week to well-baby visits for newcomers. Dr. Kent Cadegan, whose passion lies in working with individuals with PTSD, has provided additional time and care to patients presenting with trauma symptoms. The clinic is also in the process of hiring a full-time social worker to further strengthen our support for newcomer families.

Partnerships Driving Success

Judy Kelly, Director of Health and Counselling at Cape Breton University, highlighted the significance of the clinic’s partnership with the university. "The collaboration between Nova Scotia Health and Cape Breton University has allowed us to create a model of care that truly addresses the needs of newcomers in our community," Judy said. "The clinic's role is vital in ensuring that our growing population receives appropriate healthcare services."

Looking Ahead

As it enters its second year, the Cape Breton Newcomer Primary Care Clinic plans to build on its early success. Expanding accessibility and ensuring that all newcomers feel supported remains a priority. With strong community ties and continued support from partners like CBU, the clinic will continue to make a meaningful difference in the lives of newcomers for years to come.

For more information about the Cape Breton Newcomer Primary Care Clinic or to learn about referral processes, please visit Cape Breton Newcomer Primary Care Clinic website. Media Contact: Nova Scotia Health – 1-844-483-3344 NSHAmedia@nshealth.ca

Photo Caption (left to right): Judy Kelley  RN,  Director of Health and Counselling, CBU, co-lead of the Newcomers Clinic, Chloe MacDonald, Health Services Lead,Primary Health Care, NSH co-lead of the Newcomers Clinic, Chloe Pitcher, Medical Office Admin , Ralleesh Kunhi Kandiyil , Daughter : Ayaan Raleesh 5 months, Wife : Harsha Nellika Kunjiraman, Brea MacNeil RN,  Family Practice Nurse, Cape Breton Newcomer Clinic, Dr Kent Cadegan , Family Physician, Cape Breton Newcomer Clinic