Achievement, momentum, and a new chapter ahead

This year at Hearing & Speech Nova Scotia (HSNS) reflects a sustained focus on quality, partnership, and continuous improvement. Across governance, clinical practice, and community engagement, our work has been guided by a shared commitment to strengthen care for Nova Scotians today while building a stronger foundation for tomorrow.

In 2025, HSNS completed a rigorous on-site survey by Accreditation Canada and was awarded Accredited with Exemplary Standing. This recognition reflects the discipline, integrity, and accountability embedded in our work. Conducted every four years, this independent assessment is one of the most respected measures of health care quality and safety in Canada, examining governance, patient safety, equity, and clinical standards.

With governance carrying significant weight in this cycle, we’re especially proud of the Board’s leadership in meeting enhanced standards. Accreditors commended HSNS for advancing patient safety, strengthening continuous quality improvement, and taking meaningful action to address systemic racism and Indigenous-specific racism.

Of note was the commitment and breadth of participation from clients and families in decision making across all levels of the organization, reflecting the shared effort of our Board, staff, and partners. Explore the full report to learn more about this work.

Across the province, partnerships continue to deepen our reach and impact, including our longstanding collaborations with the Department of Health and Wellness, Nova Scotia Health (NSH), the IWK, and the Dalhousie School of Communication Sciences and Disorders (SCSD).

As SCSD celebrates its 50th anniversary, we honour a remarkable legacy of education, mentorship, and service. For five decades, our organizations have worked side by side to prepare clinicians who now serve Nova Scotians in communities across the province, many within HSNS itself.

We’re also grateful to the QEII Foundation for facilitating a private donation that supported speech-language services at the NSH Oncology Clinic, helping ensure patients receiving cancer care have access to the communication support they need.

Building on these strong foundations, we’ve continued to expand partnerships that shape how care is delivered and experienced.

The Board’s commitment to reconciliation and anti-systemic racism led to the adoption of a Reconciliation Action Plan developed in partnership with Balsam, Indigenous Reconciliation Education & Advisory. Grounded in listening, relationship-building, and accountability, this work strengthens our ability to provide culturally safe and equitable services.

Across HSNS, staff continue to be central partners in advancing quality and identifying opportunities to improve how care is experienced by clients and families. This includes introducing assistive listening devices in clinic waiting areas to support communication access from the moment clients arrive, and developing specific procedures to support informed consent from clients with communication challenges.

Staff and clients also worked together to help shape the design of the new Halifax Community Clinic on Mumford Road. The new site reflects shared priorities: a location central to many Halifax clients, accessible transit and parking, welcoming and efficient design, and a space that reflects modern models of care.

HSNS staff also partner with colleagues at Nova Scotia Health (NSH) and the IWK, ensuring clinical care is integrated across the province.

Building on last year’s Health Standards Organization Workforce Wellness and Safety Survey, we’ve advanced this work by developing and implementing an Engagement Plan shaped directly by staff feedback. This ongoing effort strengthens recruitment, retention, and organizational health, recognizing that high-quality care depends on a well-supported and engaged team.

Our community partnerships continue to extend our reach across Nova Scotia. Through our Industrial & Community Audiology Program, HSNS works with employers to promote hearing health and prevent occupational hearing loss. We’ve also strengthened collaboration within the Provincial Preschool Autism Service, and with the support of iPads generously donated by GEO Nova Scotia, we expanded communication access for children who rely on speech-generating technology.

Additionally, we’ve contributed to province-wide research initiatives integrating Mi’kmaw knowledge into wellness solutions, reinforcing our commitment to Indigenous engagement and culturally informed practice.

As this report is released, HSNS enters a new chapter of leadership. Anne Mason-Browne retires after a distinguished tenure as CEO, having guided the organization through growth, innovation, and a strengthened focus on equity and quality. She leaves with deep gratitude for the dedication of staff and Board members, and for the opportunity to serve Nova Scotians while seeing patients and families play an increasingly active role in shaping their care.

The Board in turn wishes to thank Anne for the exemplary leadership she has provided over the years, and her steadfast devotion to the organization. She will be very much missed.

We’re also pleased to welcome Lindsay Peach as our new Chief Executive Officer. Building on the progress and momentum achieved under Anne’s leadership, HSNS enters its next chapter with confidence and continued purpose.

Together with our partners, staff, clients, and communities, we carry this work forward united in our vision: Every person deserves a voice. Every voice deserves to be heard.

Mark Landy, Board Chair Anne Mason-Browne, CEO