Nova Scotia’s Community Health Boards launch Provincial Community Health Plan for 2025-2029

Halifax, Nova Scotia – Nova Scotia’s 35 Community Health Boards (CHBs) have launched the provincial summary of their Community Health Plans for 2025-2029, aimed at improving health and well-being across the province. 

Priorities within the five-year plan were shaped through extensive community engagement conducted between November 2023 and March 2024. Feedback was received through 150 in-person engagement sessions, 1,700 comment cards, and 2,652 responses to an online survey. This feedback from more than 6,700 Nova Scotians, reflecting diverse needs, resulted in the following priorities:

• Access to affordable basics of daily living: Addressing issues such as food security, housing, transportation and social participation to reduce risks of poor health outcomes.
• Active living and social connection: Promoting physical activity and social inclusion as key elements of mental and physical health.
• Natural and built environments: Shaping spaces that foster well-being by improving where people live, work and play.
• Local access, information, and navigation: Ensuring individuals can easily access services and resources that support wellness.
• Mental wellness: Advocating for an inclusive environment that supports emotional well-being, vital for overall health.

Key actions by Community Health Boards in response to these priorities include:

• Advising and supporting anti-poverty initiatives addressing critical issues such as housing, food security and educational opportunities.
• Promoting inclusive public spaces that encourage physical activity and foster social connections.
• Championing policies that improve access to healthy food, recreational opportunities and active transport infrastructure.
• Collaborating with organizations to build community cohesion and a strong sense of belonging.
• Supporting culturally appropriate services, including language supports, to enhance accessibility and inclusion for diverse populations.

“Nova Scotia’s 35 Community Health Boards are essential partners in promoting and sustaining our vision of health communities for generations. I'm pleased to accept the 2025-2029 Community Health Plan,” said Karen Oldfield, interim president and CEO at Nova Scotia Health.

Recognizing the proven impact of the social determinants of health on the health outcomes of Nova Scotians, Community Health Boards are eager to work with all interest holders – including Nova Scotia Health, IWK Health, and community organizations – to advance these priorities over the next five years. The Community Health Plan for 2025-2029 will help to shape a healthier, more connected Nova Scotia.

Each zone will coordinate its own local launch events to further engage with internal program partners and community interest holders. These events will be scheduled at varying times to accommodate local needs.

For more information about the Community Health Plan and upcoming events, please visit: https://www.communityhealthboards.ns.ca or follow your local Community Health Board on social media.