More funding, greater transparency for surgery patients

Halifax, NS - Patients waiting for orthopedic surgery received good news today, April 28, as Health and Wellness Minister Leo Glavine announced an investment to help reduce orthopedic wait times.

Government is putting $4.2 million more toward orthopedic services beginning this year, and is now providing surgeon wait time information.

"We know that we currently fall short of the national benchmark for orthopedic wait times, and we know, because of our aging population, the need for these types of procedures will only increase," said Mr. Glavine. "That is why we are making this additional investment to improve care for Nova Scotians."

The province will recruit a foot and ankle sub-specialist surgeon, perform more hip and knee replacements to help reduce wait times, and improve efficiency in orthopedic care.

"People are waiting too long for joint replacements in Nova Scotia, and this announcement is welcome news," said Dr. Eric Howatt, head of orthopedic surgery for Annapolis Valley District Health. "The minister has recognized the need to move toward achieving the national benchmark of a six-month wait for joint replacement."

The Department of Health and Wellness also published wait time information online for all surgeries today. The province and Doctors Nova Scotia say it will increase transparency and help physicians referring patients for surgery.

Wait times can vary among surgeons within a district and across the province, so posting them will help find surgeons for faster consultations and surgeries.

"Publishing surgeon wait times will be particularly beneficial to family physicians, to refer patients appropriately and help set expectations of wait times," said Dr. John Sullivan, cardiovascular surgeon and president-elect, Doctors Nova Scotia.

"It's important for patients to understand wait times data is an average, meaning a patient's actual wait could be shorter or longer than the average, based on their specific care plan."

The province committed to reducing wait times and improving access to health care for Nova Scotians. The wait times website publishes statistics for a variety of services, including surgery and surgical consults, diagnostic imaging, oncologist referrals, radiation therapy, cardiac services, addiction services, breast screening programs, genetic consultation and referrals to specialists.

Surgeon wait time information is available at waittimes.novascotia.ca/surgeon-search

Contact:

Tony Kiritsis

(902) 424-0585

email: tony.kiritsis@gov.ns.ca