Josh Viner’s fate seemed pretty clear -- in his early thirties and facing charges for possession of drugs with the purpose of trafficking, he was staring down up to 56-months in a federal jail cell. A new father with a long history of substance abuse, he had one last chance to turn it all around, and that came in the form of a program between the Department of Justice and NSHA Mental Health and Addiction Services.
Patients in acute care mental health units often arrive with very few belongings. Issues that often bring them into hospital include health problems due to poor living conditions, no home or clothing and few social supports. But with the help of members from 123 Wing Shearwater and clothing program through NSHA, mental health inpatients in Halifax are getting the items they need.
In the comics, a team of heroes with special abilities saves the day. The same is true in interdisciplinary health care teams, as professionals from different disciplines come together to provide the best care for people.
NSHA receives questions from patients, families, visitors and staff every day. Some of these questions are unique to individuals, but many of them are common questions that a lot of people ask.
An event to encourages Indigenous youth to pursue a career in health care was well received by 150 students from across the Halifax area. And according to the Community Development Advisor for NSHA, said having more people from the Indigenous community in health care professions could be the key to improving health statuses.
Health and Environment officials have investigated a second Cape Breton tattoo artist and are alerting customers about a potential health risk under Nova Scotia’s Health Protection Act.
Through the No Baby Unhugged program at Cape Breton Regional Hospital, volunteer huggers cuddle and hold babies when parents aren’t able to be with them, whether for medical reasons or because of distance or family commitments at home. Hugging is not only comforting -- it is a proven method of increasing a baby's health.
Challenges are always part of health care. Now, as one health authority, physicians, staff and administrators have a more seamless ability to respond to these challenges. In January, that abilitywas put to the test when Dartmouth General Hospital saw one of its busiest days.
