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
Thank you to everyone who completed the recent survey. We were truly overwhelmed and grateful for the number of responses. Your participation shows how strongly nurses in Nova Scotia want their voices heard and reflected in meaningful advocacy.
On February 26th and 27th, NANS used your feedback to guide a facilitated, highly collaborative session with representatives from the Nurses Association of Nova Scotia (NANS), Nurse Practitioner Association of Nova Scotia (NPANS), Nova Scotia Internationally Educated Nurses Network (NSIENN), and the Black Nurses Association of Nova Scotia (BNANS). Together, we worked to shape a shared vision for the future of nursing in our province.
In the coming weeks, NANS will begin sharing key priorities from the think tank executive summary and moving them into action. This work will shape an exciting, solution focused 2026 while ensuring that nurse advocacy in Nova Scotia will be strong for years to come.
— 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.
