Residents of Amherst and its vicinity now enjoy improved access to dependable primary healthcare. A newly opened collaborative family practice clinic on Prince Arthur Street in Amherst is now serving patients, staffed by two nurse practitioners and a family practice nurse. The clinic will soon welcome a family doctor, a pharmacist, and a social worker as part of its rotating team.
Health and Wellness Minister Michelle Thompson stated, “We’re committed to enhancing primary healthcare access in Amherst and Cumberland County. We’re establishing 60 new and expanded teams province-wide to ensure Nova Scotians receive the care they require. This clinic is part of this significant initiative.”
Since opening on June 8, the Amherst clinic is contributing to the government’s healthcare improvement plan, Action for Health, which aims to provide Nova Scotians with the care they need and deserve.
Dr. Aaron Smith, Medical Executive Director, Northern Zone, Nova Scotia Health, praised the collaborative work model: “Healthcare providers prefer team work. It fosters high-quality, safe care, and provides a sustainable, rewarding work environment. This new clinic enhances our ability to attract and retain healthcare professionals, ensuring patients receive care from the most appropriate provider.”
Nurse practitioner at the clinic, Laura Conrad, expressed her pride in contributing to her community, “The collaborative practice model ensures patients receive the best care for their overall health.”
Key Facts:
- A collaborative clinic comprises at least three healthcare providers caring for patients.
- In May, $17 million was announced by the Province to develop and fortify 60 new clinics.
- Clinic or team strengthening refers to increased staffing, funding, or renovations.
- The 60 new and improved clinics are distributed as follows: 12 in the northern, 17 in the eastern, 14 in the central, and 17 in the western health zones of Nova Scotia.
Further information on the 60 new and expanded clinics can be found here.
Source: Release