The number of Nova Scotians on the Need a Family Practice Registry has seen a notable decrease, according to the latest update from Nova Scotia Health. As of January 2, 2025, 110,456 residents are registered as needing a family doctor or nurse practitioner—down from 119,670 reported on December 4, 2024.
This reduction of 9,214 people is credited to ongoing validation efforts in December, which confirmed that many registrants had already found a provider. Despite the drop, the registry still represents 10.4% of the province’s population.
In a statement, Nova Scotia Health emphasized the importance of maintaining accurate data. “Our team has worked diligently to validate the registry and ensure we have an accurate picture of those who still need access to primary care,” said a spokesperson.
The province’s efforts to address the primary care shortage include recruitment and retention strategies for healthcare professionals and innovative programs like VirtualCareNS, which offers online appointments to people still waiting for a provider.
Premier Tim Houston previously noted the significance of these programs, particularly after the registry saw its highest recorded numbers in June 2024, with over 160,000 people listed. “We’ve faced tough numbers, but with targeted investments and innovative solutions, we’re starting to make a difference,” Houston said during a press conference last fall.
Residents on the registry can expect the next update from Nova Scotia Health in early February. Until then, the focus remains on reducing the list further while improving access to care.
With files from NSHA
