Nova Scotia Health Programs

Site visit program

It’s understandable that you may want to visit Nova Scotia before committing to relocating. This program reimburses you (and your partner) for a one-time visit to a potential practice site. You must be eligible for a license in Nova Scotia, and work with a recruiter to obtain approval from Nova Scotia Health prior to your visit. 

Relocation allowance

If you have an accepted offer for work in Nova Scotia, you may be eligible for a relocation allowance of up to $10,000. For more information, contact a recruitment consultant.


Nova Scotia Department of Health & Wellness incentive programs

The Department of Health and Wellness in Nova Scotia offers incentive programs to help you choose a practice that suits your career goals, and help transition you into your new life in Nova Scotia.

Family physicians and specialists who qualify can earn up to $125,000 in incentives over a five-year period.

For more information on these programs, including eligibility criteria, contact Department of Health and Wellness Physician Resources. All DHW physician incentives are taxable. 

Locum support

The Provincial Locum Program supports practicing physicians in rural communities. It helps bring medical care to patients of eligible physicians when the physician is away from their respective practice due to illness, vacation, or continuing medical education.

The locum program is administered by Medavie Blue Cross on behalf of the Nova Scotia government. The Department of Health and Wellness provides policy direction and funding.

Locum physicians in family medicine and designated specialties receive the following payments.

  • Mileage
  • Per diem
  • Daily guaranteed rate
  • Overhead

Physicians interested in participating in the locum program must submit application forms to, and establish billing arrangements through, Medavie Blue Cross. Locum registration—including guidelines, application forms and claim forms—may be found at Medavie Blue Cross.

This page was updated on March 7, 2022