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QEII Halifax Infirmary Emergency Department is working with reduced space, which may lead to delays for those with less urgent concerns. Learn more here.

Starting Saturday, December 14, the entrance to the QEII Halifax Infirmary Emergency Department will change to 1840 Bell Road. Learn more.

Nurse Practitioners

Nurse practitioners are registered nurses with advanced knowledge and education in primary health care, or other areas of specialty care.

Primary Health Care Nurse Practitioners

A nurse practitioner working in family practice can:

  • Diagnose and treat health issues, such as asthma, COPD, diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure, and other ongoing health conditions.
  • Order and interpret tests, including blood tests, X-rays, ultrasounds, and MRIs.
  • Prescribe medications.
  • Perform exams and procedures, such as pap tests, prostate exams, and immunizations.
  • Provide health screening clinics such as well-baby, well-women, and well-men.
  • Teach you how to manage an ongoing health condition, and offer ways to lead a healthy life.
  • Focus on how your physical and mental health affects your life and family.
  • Refer you to a specialist or other health care provider, if needed.

Adapted from the College of Registered Nurses of Nova Scotia and the Canadian Nurses Association.

Specialty Nurse Practitioners

Accessing Primary Care

There are many ways to access primary care, even if you're not currently attached to a primary care provider.

Answer a few quick questions to receive personalized instructions for accessing Nova Scotia Health's primary care options near you including in-person, virtual and telephone options.

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Find Emergency Care

Use this tool to identify the emergency care options that are currently available nearest to you.

If this is a medical emergency, please call 9-1-1 for immediate assistance

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