Accomplishments
in 2025–2026

A young boy sitting on the stairs at home using his iPad

Accessibility – goals

  1. Sites, services, and information meet provincial accessibility and patient safety standards.

  2. Hearing & Speech Nova Scotia (HSNS) Patient and Family-Centred Care (PFCC) is guided by principles of equity, diversity, inclusion, reconciliation, and accessibility.

  3. IT systems are enhanced to support accessible administrative processes and resources.

  4. Safety (physical and psychological) is demonstrated as a core value of the organization.

This year, HSNS:

  • Completed the relocation of the Halifax Community Clinic.

  • Rolled out assistive listening devices to all HSNS sites and completed staff training.

  • Connected 118 clients with speech-generating devices through our partnership with GEO NS.

Communication – goals

  1. Expand communication strategies (including social media) and the breadth of content for internal and external partners.

  2. Clients, patients, families, staff, and partners share their experiences and stories.

  3. Promote HSNS as a household name across all communication, services, activities, and products.

This year, HSNS:

  • Implemented the audiology appointment reminders project in the remaining Eastern Zone site and in the Northern Zone.

  • Continued implementation of data analytics and visualization for risk and safety data.

Engagement – goals

  1. Build on professional development and leadership development opportunities for all staff.

  2. Use collaborative decision-making and engagement with clients, HSNS staff, and external partners.

  3. Promote recruitment, retention, and an inclusive and supportive workplace culture.

This year, HSNS:

Strategic planning in 2026–27

HSNS will begin developing a new strategic plan that reflects the evolving needs of clients, families, staff, and communities across Nova Scotia. This work will be guided by collaboration and engagement with staff, partners, clients, caregivers, and community members to help guide the future direction of the organization.

Improving accessibility and language access

This year, HSNS introduced new website tools to improve access to care, including online self-referral information and a dedicated form for people who use ASL or a language other than English. HSNS also began translating materials into additional languages, including Mi’kmaw, with more translations planned based on feedback from clients, families, and staff to support more accessible, culturally relevant, and informed care.