Temporary service changes during health information system launch

Nova Scotia Health is preparing for the final implementation of its new health information system, a major step forward in improving how care teams access and manage patient information.

This new system brings patient health information together in one place, giving healthcare teams real-time access to the information they need to support care.

As part of the planned transition period to the new system in the Western, Northern and Eastern Zones, some temporary service adjustments are required. This approach allows for additional time as physicians and staff become familiar with the new system.

• During this time, some rural emergency departments and urgent treatment centres will have temporary changes to operating hours or closures. Patients are encouraged to check the information on our website or YourHealthNS before travelling for care.
• Virtual Urgent Care (VUNS) will remain open and staffed across participating facilities. This will provide continued access to care for patients appropriate for virtual care while also helping to reduce pressure on regional emergency departments.
• Some services, including blood collection and diagnostic imaging (such as X-rays and ECGs/EKGs), may have reduced hours or fewer appointments available during the transition as staff adjust to the new system.
• Any patients unable to attend scheduled appointments are asked to contact the clinic or service as soon as possible.
• Mobile primary care clinics are available and can address non-urgent health issues. These are drop-in clinics. You will be asked the reason for your visit, and if your health concern can be treated at the clinic, you will be given an approximate appointment. Additional information can be found here.
• For non-emergency health concerns, your family doctor or nurse practitioner is where most of your care needs can and should be addressed. They may have a same-day appointment available for you. If you don't have a family doctor or nurse practitioner, or you're not able to see them, there are a number of care options available in your community.

As Nova Scotia transitions to a new provincial health information system, some data is being reviewed and validated. Beginning Friday, November 13, certain measures, including the Emergency Department Wait Times tool, may be delayed, updated, or temporarily unavailable.

We appreciate the public’s patience and understanding as we implement this important system improvement.