Benchmarks for Health Services

Nova Scotians are one step closer to better access to health services with national benchmarks for reducing wait times established jointly by the provinces and the federal government.

The benchmarks, announced today, Dec. 12, have been set for cancer treatment, cardiac surgery, joint replacement and sight restoration.

"I'm proud that Nova Scotia has met its commitment to the 10-year plan to strengthen health care," said Health Minister Angus MacIsaac, who is in Toronto with other provincial health ministers for the announcement.

"We all worked together this past year to make sure these benchmarks are based on scientific evidence and research," said Mr. MacIsaac.

"This initiative demonstrates that the provinces face common challenges in the area of wait times and common goals," said Mr. MacIsaac. "Reducing wait times is a complex task and these benchmarks are one part of the solution.

"Setting these is a milestone, just as reporting to the public about our Nova Scotia wait times was a milestone for the province in October."

The benchmarks will guide the Department of Health as it moves forward to improve timely care for Nova Scotians.

"In order to reach these goals we will continue to work closely with the clinical community and health districts in Nova Scotia," he said.