There's a gap
For a united professional voice that is representative of all nursing domains of practice (education, research, administration, clinical, policy).
For that voice to be present in all levels of healthcare system discussions.
There's a desire
With 5,000 members on the Nurses Association of Nova Scotia Facebook page (about a third of NS nurses), hundreds voted, with NANS emerging as the strongest contender for the name.
Strengthening Nursing Leadership in Nova Scotia: Update
In February 2026, the Nurses Association of Nova Scotia (NANS), with provincial government support, brought together nursing organizations across the province to form the NANS Collaborative. Partners include NANS, the Nurse Practitioners Association of Nova Scotia (NPANS), the Nova Scotia Internationally Educated Nurses Network (NSIENN), and the Black Nurses Association of Nova Scotia (BNANS).
The Collaborative aims to strengthen healthcare in Nova Scotia through a unified nursing voice, coordinated advocacy, and strategic leadership. Key priorities include improving access and quality of care, supporting recruitment and retention, advancing equity and inclusion, strengthening nursing influence in healthcare decision-making, and promoting professional development and leadership opportunities for nurses.
Based on this work, recommendations were developed to support the Collaborative's ongoing role in advancing nursing and healthcare. In its September 10, 2026 response, the Department of Health and Wellness recommended pursuing these objectives through the existing Provincial Nursing Network and committed to ongoing partnership on nursing workforce and healthcare priorities.
— NANS leadership team
What is the value of a Nurses Association for the nurses in Nova Scotia? And for the public?
A Nursing Association provides a cohesive professional voice for all nurses, advocating for optimized nursing roles, scopes of practice, and professional development opportunities beyond regulators and unions. It supports new nurses' transitions, helps experienced nurses thrive, and fosters public policy to shape healthcare and promote the profession.
By influencing care models and generating ideas, it improves access and quality of care. Additionally, the association advances clinical and leadership skills, facilitates professional networks, and connects nurses across NS, the country, and globally.
