Honouring Doctors in Nova Scotia

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Doctors’ Day is May 1, a time to celebrate physicians and medical learners who go above and beyond to ensure Nova Scotia has healthy communities, for generations.

From family physicians to specialists, researchers to learners, these healthcare heroes work to keep us healthy and guide us through life’s most vulnerable moments. Doctors’ Day is an opportunity to say thank you and reflect on the impact these professionals make every single day.

Nova Scotia Health is proud to honour remarkable physicians who make a difference in our communities. Here are a few stories about their impact across the province.

Physicians Advancing Care by Specialty
 

Dr. Andrea Mossman of New Minas was honoured with the Dalhousie Family Medicine Exceptional Teacher Award. Read more.

Dr. Sarah Conrad, a Lunenburg family doctor and award-winning preceptor, is shaping the next generation of physicians. Read more.

Dr. Eliza Moldovan took over a retiring practice in Bridgewater, ensuring patients continued access to care. Read more.

Dr. Chris Elliott, with over 50 years of service in rural medicine, has left a legacy at Aberdeen Hospital. Read more.

Dr. Amy Trottier is establishing a cancer risk clinic for patients with blood cancers. Read more.

Dr. Kaitlin McCormick found her calling in mental healthcare after early inspiration from her mother. Read more.

Dr. Nag Sannidhanam, or ‘Dr. Nag is a beloved Dartmouth physician known for his deep compassion. Read more.

Dr. Sarah Faour and Dr. David Faour were warmly welcomed back to Antigonish with their two children. Read more.

Dr. Sarah Tennant enjoys the dynamic environment of emergency medicine in Bridgewater. Read more.

Dr. Jack Rasmussen is advancing education and treatment for burn patients across the province. Read more.

Dr. Jonathan Howatt continues his father’s legacy in a touching generational hand-off in orthopedic surgery. Read more.

Dr. Adedamola Fasehun and Dr. Tareq Abdel Ghani joined the Northern Zone to support growing mental health needs. Read more.

Dr. Ollie Poole and nine colleagues were recruited to improve perioperative care across the province. Read more.

Dr. Jamie Rogers, an ophthalmologist celebrates 25 years in Colchester East Hants. Read more.

Dr. Phil Thomas brings his passion for elder care to Nova Scotia from the UK. Read more.

Pediatrics, Dr. Rockey Chen and Dr. Michael Treece opened the new Spryfield Children’s Health Clinic. Read more.

Dr. Colin Sutton found his way back to where he started, practicing at Aberdeen Hospital. Read more.

Dr. Greg Hirsch travels across Nova Scotia as part of cardiac outreach clinics. Read more.

Dr. Muhammad Soofi is one of the new hospitalists at Saint Martha’s Regional Hospital who support inpatient care. Read more.

Celebrating Diversity in Medicine

Dr. Tim El-Tahan and his Pictou County community foster inclusivity by organizing Islam 101 events to better support Muslim healthcare workers. Read more.

Dr. Chidozie ‘Obi’ and Dr. Jane Njoku, who immigrated from Nigeria, have made Digby home with their young family, building strong bonds with patients and the community. Read more.

Dr. Ishraga Awad, associate regional medical officer of health, leads communicable disease control efforts to protect vulnerable populations. Read more.

Dr. Alana Soares, a clinical assistant originally trained as a physician, is helping bridge care gaps while on the path to full licensure in Cape Breton. Read more.

Canadian Women Physicians Day (March 11) celebrates remarkable leaders like Dr. Stephanie Scott, Dr. Abir Hussein, Dr. Andrea Faryniuk, and Dr. Alison Freeman for their contributions in clinical care, leadership, and mentorship. Read more.

Leadership, Mentorship, and Legacy

Dr. Adam Sheppard is shaping the future through his role in the North Nova Family Medicine Residency Program. Read more.

Dr. Justin Blaauwendraat seamlessly transitioned into the role of Research Residency Coordinator with the North Nova Cabinet, embodying the essence of mentorship and guidance. Read more.

Dr. Lisa Bonang received the Nova Scotia Health Leadership Excellence Award – Physician Leader. Read more.

Dr. Stephen Workman uses theatre and music to bring laughter and connection to healthcare. Read more.

Drs. Jason, Dale, and Blair Williams honour their father through the Nick Williams Foundation. Read more.

Dr. Jose Jota and Dr. Brad MacDougall help guide new physicians through the Practice Ready Assessment Program. Read more.

Dr. Michelle Saxon supports internationally trained doctors through her work with the Practice Ready Assessment Program in Middleton. Read more.

The TIP-TOP Program supports physicians through the transition into and out of practice, benefiting both patients and providers. Read more.

Celebrating Medical Learners and Residents

Resident doctors are vital to our healthcare system. During Resident Appreciation Week, we highlighted their hard work, dedication, and passion for care. Meet some of our residents from the last two years: Celebrating Resident Doctor Appreciation Week | Nova Scotia Health

Dr. Kristin Ko (Anesthesiology, PGY-2): Initially drawn to neurology and family medicine, she discovered her passion for anesthesiology during a second-year elective. Read more

Dr. Freddy Lee (Ophthalmology, PGY-2): Inspired by the impact of vision care, he loves the mix of medicine, surgery, and innovation within the specialty. Read more

Dr. Maya Venkataraman (Family Medicine, PGY-1): She values the variety and fulfillment of working with patients of all ages. Read more.

Dr. Adele Orovec (General Surgery, PGY-3): A former athlete, her journey into medicine was shaped by personal experience, leading her to prioritize empathy in patient care. Read more

Honouring Local Heroes

Dr. Kathryn Binnersley and Dr. Jasmine Waslowski made Inverness their home after completing training. Read more.

Two Northern Zone physicians were awarded the Queen Elizabeth II Platinum Jubilee Pin for service to their communities. Read more.

From the urban centres to the smallest rural communities, Nova Scotia’s physicians are leading with heart. We are honoured to celebrate each of them, not just on Doctors’ Day, but every day, for their tireless work and meaningful contributions.