Dr. Alicia Jones finds home, purpose and community in Nova Scotia

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When Dr. Alicia Jones set out to reconnect with her passion for family medicine, she never imagined the journey would lead her to Nova Scotia and into two vibrant, historic communities. Now a practising family physician in North and East Preston, Alicia brings a commitment to building relationships, earning trust and helping communities.

Originally from Barbados, Alicia trained at the University of the West Indies (Barbados Faculty of Medical Sciences), then started her practice in the U.K. Alicia then decided to make a change and move to Canada in April, where she could work in a meaningful community setting and rediscover the joy in patient care.

Nova Scotia stood out to her for its sense of community and diversity. “The Nova Scotia Health Physician Recruitment Team was incredible. They didn’t just place me somewhere; they listened and found the right fit,” Alicia recalls.

Working in the predominantly African Nova Scotian communities of North and East Preston has been a powerful experience for Alicia, one that echoes her Afro-Caribbean roots. “This community is rich in culture and history. Being placed in an area with similar roots to mine helps build trust and connection,” she says. “It means so much to be part of a space where I can understand my patients not just medically but culturally. I want to be part of the foundation that supports a healthier community.”

Alicia’s connection to the community extends beyond the clinic. She makes time to attend local events like North Preston Day. “It’s about showing up, being present and letting people know there’s someone here who understands them and is ready to help.”

Cultural understanding plays a significant role in how Alicia practises medicine. “There are certain conditions that are more common in the Black community, and culturally we can be very laid back about health,” she explains. “I try to raise awareness and talk about issues that might otherwise be overlooked. I know what to ask, and how to ask it, because I understand the family dynamics and cultural context.”

Her goal is to create a safe space where people feel comfortable, heard and respected. “I see every interaction as an opportunity to build trust and strengthen the connection between the clinic and the community. My patients want to be involved in their care and that’s something I value deeply.”

Relocating to Nova Scotia wasn’t without surprises, like the cost of living or the differences in the healthcare system, but the positives far outweigh the challenges. “Everyone is so kind and helpful. Even when I was struggling, people, even my patients, offered support.”

Alicia has also found new energy in her day-to-day life. “I’ve become more socially active. I’ve started playing golf and exercising more, which has helped keep me grounded. My life used to feel hectic, but now I have the space to enjoy it fully.”

For other internationally trained physicians thinking about making the move to Nova Scotia, Alicia has simple advice: “Do it! Do your research, speak to physicians who’ve already made the move, and learn from their experience. There’s support everywhere, and it really is a rewarding place to live and work.”

Looking ahead, Alicia is focused on deepening her connection with the communities she now calls home. Team-based care is a foundational part of primary healthcare, and showing that Alicia is part of a collaborative model reinforces that patients in North and East Preston are supported by a connected care team. “I’m just happy to have this opportunity. I’m integrated into the community and working alongside incredible people. It’s not just about being a doctor; it’s about being part of something bigger. And that’s exactly what I was looking for.”

Please do not call clinics regarding being taken on as a patient. Patients must register at: needafamilypractice.nshealth.ca 

Photo of Dr. Alicia Jones.