Public Representative
Providing the Public’s Perspective
Representing the voice of Nova Scotians as a public representative on the Council of the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Nova Scotia is one of the most important and fulfilling roles I hold. While high-quality, accessible, safe healthcare is something all Nova Scotians have a right to receive, the reality is, it is not always what people experience.
As the regulatory body for physicians in Nova Scotia, the College works diligently to serve and protect the public while also supporting physicians. Creating space for the voice of the public to be represented on Council and its various committees encourages balanced discussions and decisions. Given the importance that healthcare plays in the lives of Nova Scotians and the reality that people sometimes face when seeking healthcare services, including the publics voice on Council is paramount.
Adapting to Change
During my time as a public representative, several things have been striking.
The level of thoroughness applied to all stages of work at the College is remarkable.
The first is the degree of rigour that is applied to the issues and files the College manages. The level of thoroughness applied to all stages of work at the College is remarkable. I wish all Nova Scotians knew that when a matter is placed before the College, it is in safe, fair, and capable hands.
Secondly, I am struck by the College’s adaptability. Having started my term with Council during the COVID-19 pandemic, I was able to witness the College’s adaptability and flexibility at full strength. Like many organizations, this period presented many challenges for the College. However, the staff readily adapted to their new reality and did not miss a beat. Lastly is the commitment to innovation the College demonstrates.
Innovating & Improving
While public safety always remains first of mind, the College is a true trailblazer when it comes to exploring new ideas and ways of doing things – whether it be a new approach to licensing, revising a policy to align with the changing healthcare environment, or developing a new process to improve investigations. Staff at the College are consistently seeking improvement and leading change, and Nova Scotians benefit from their steadfast commitment to innovation.
I know there is much work to do to create the high-quality, accessible, safe healthcare environment that Nova Scotians deserve. As a public representative on Council, I can confidently say that the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Nova Scotia is doing its part to create that environment and that when it comes to a regulatory body, Nova Scotians are in good hands.