Palliative Care in Nova Scotia

Publicly funded palliative care is available in most provinces at no cost to the patient, as confirmed by Health Canada's Framework on Palliative Care in Canada. Private hospice rooms may charge $200 to $400 per day. Home-based palliative care through provincial programs is generally free, covering nursing visits, medications, and equipment.

Palliative care is for individuals with serious or terminal illnesses who need specialized comfort care focused on pain management and quality of life. The Canadian Hospice Palliative Care Association (chpca.ca) emphasizes that palliative care is not limited to end-of-life — it can and should begin alongside curative treatment at any stage of a serious illness.

Palliative care includes pain and symptom management, emotional and psychological support, spiritual care, family counselling, and coordination with other healthcare providers. Interdisciplinary teams include physicians, nurses, social workers, and spiritual care providers. Health Canada recognizes palliative care as an essential health service available in hospitals, hospices, long-term care homes, and at home.

Palliative care is available in hospitals, hospices, long-term care homes, and at home. Ask your family doctor for a referral, or contact your regional health authority for a list of palliative care services in Nova Scotia. The Canadian Virtual Hospice (virtualhospice.ca) provides a directory of palliative care programs and 24/7 support for patients and families.