Breast screening

For all women aged over 40 who are not up to date with their routine mammograms, it is important to call (1-800) 565-0548 for an appointment. Women in Nova Scotia, aged 40-49, are recommended to have annual screening mammograph. Women aged 50-74, are recommended to have screening mammography at two year intervals. Women older than 50 can also be recommended to return on an annual basis in certain cases. Please discuss any new breast lumps or complex clinical needs such breast implants with your Family Physician who may need to refer you directly. 

Mental health

Mental Health & Addictions Crisis Line The Nova Scotia Mental Health Crisis Telephone Line is delivered by the Mental Health Mobile Crisis Team (MHMCT). This provincial service provides crisis intervention for children, youth and adults experiencing a mental health crisis or mental distress. The service is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, to support callers who present with suicidal thoughts, self-harming thoughts or behaviors, overwhelming anxiety, difficulty coping with distress, psychotic or distorted thinking, depression, substance use difficulties or any other self-identified mental health concerns. Call (902) 429-8167 or (1-888) 429-8167 (toll-free) for immediate help if you need it

Colon cancer screening

The Colon Cancer Prevention Program mails home screening kits to all Nova Scotians aged 50 to 74 with the goal of preventing colon cancer, or finding it early when treatment is most effective. If you are a resident of Nova Scotia between the ages of 50 and 74 and have a valid MSI health card, you will automatically be mailed a kit. The kit will be mailed out just after your 50th birthday and then every two years following. This is sent automatically, you do not need to request one. If you have not received one and your test is due please call (1-866) 599-2267 to have a kit sent to you.

Helplines

Call Nova Scotia’s 811 helpline to talk to a registered nurse. It is open all day, seven days a week. 811 nurses can provide information about medical services provided in your area, general health information or advise on any healthcare concerns. The 811 website also contains a huge amount of useful information about health conditions and treatments and can be found at 811.novascotia.ca

Nova Scotia’s 211 Helpline is a free, confidential information and referral service that can connect you to thousands of programs and services offered by local community groups, non-profits and government departments across Nova Scotia. It is available throughout the province – 24 hours a day, 365 days a year – by dialling 2-1-1 to speak to a staff member, or by searching the easy-to-use online database at ns.211.ca