Physician Wellness

Physician Wellness

Ensuring a healthy physician workforce is a key part of Doctors Nova Scotia’s work.

Given growing concerns with physician burnout and disengagement, supporting physician wellness is a priority for Doctors Nova Scotia (DNS). This means investing in efforts to support physicians before they become burnt out and unwell, as well as providing services to physicians who need personal and professional support.

Restoring the Joy in the Practice of Medicine

In January 2020, DNS engaged a consultant to conduct a brief environmental scan to support the development of a framework to guide the organization’s efforts in supporting physician wellness. The results of that environmental scan were used to help develop a framework that will guide the association’s work to support physician wellness in the coming years.

Restoring the Joy in the Practice of Medicine takes a three-pronged approach, working at the individual, community and system levels to bolster physician wellness, create strong communities of physicians and influence organizational change.

The framework is supported by funding through the Scotiabank and CMA Affinity Fund.

Read the framework

Mentorship

The mentorship program dedicated to creating a feeling of connection and community for international medical graduates (IMGs) who are navigating the Nova Scotia health-care system and are looking to secure support as they prepare to complete their exams for full licensure. 

The mentorship program connects IMGs with their peers through group and peer to peer mentorship. Join this program if you are an IMG who is looking for support navigating the Nova Scotia health-care system, help with practice efficiency, study support for exam preparation and other areas mentees may identify as requiring the support of a mentor. 

Mentees can participate in group and/or one on one mentorship. 

We are also recruiting IMG mentors who can provide advice about navigating the health care system, provide exam support and/or practical insights related to daily practice. 

Learn more

Upcoming webinar

Exploring Shame in Medicine – A Virtual Session for Physicians in Atlantic Canada
Date: April 24, 2024 (register by April 15)
Time: 6-7:30 p.m. Atlantic

Registration is limited. Register and learn more here.

Professional Support Program

Doctors Nova Scotia’s Professional Support Program (PSP) provides confidential peer-to-peer support for members and their families who are dealing with personal or professional problems.

The PSP program responds to the mental health and wellness needs of members and also supports initiatives, workshops and other resources that promote wellness, resiliency and balanced living. 

Help is a call away

Need assistance? Call 902-468-8215 or 1-855-275-8215 or email professionalsupport@doctorsns.com.

Read more about the PSP.