Refugees will have better access to healthcare as Halifax-based Newcomer Health Clinic is set to see an additional $684,000 from the province annually.
The Clinic offers primary and preventative care to government-assisted refugees, privately-sponsored and refugee claimants.
Health Minister Michelle Thompson shared the news Tuesday, on Mumford Road in Halifax.
“We have a responsibility to ensure the health and safety of everyone in our province. This includes people who have fled their country in search of safety in Nova Scotia,” said Michelle Thompson, Minister of Health and Wellness. “Some of these patients have complex medical needs or are experiencing trauma. They may face language barriers or have not received proper medical care for years. We’re pleased to continue supporting the amazing work of this clinic.”
The health hub will use the extra money to hire staff – such as a family practice nurse – to better support its 2715 patients. Additionally, the clinic plans to hire a social worker to match newcomers to service providers in the community and a coordinator to help families navigate services through the IWK Health Centre.
People attending the clinic can get help with chronic disease management, routine care and vaccinations, with the goal of being transferred to a family doctor in the community within two years.
Previously, the clinic operated on $340,000 annually — $50,000 from the province, the rest from other partners.
The money will triple the Newcomer Health Clinic’s budget to more than $1 million annually.
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