Nova Scotia Women Face Years-Long Health Care Wait

Cassidy Walker, a 29-year-old from Halifax, endured four years of pain while awaiting a gynecologist appointment for suspected endometriosis. Despite her doctor's advocacy, the extensive waitlist left her struggling. The pain was so debilitating it sometimes prevented her from getting out of bed and caused her to miss significant personal and professional events.

In 2023, Walker sought treatment in Maine, undergoing endometriosis excision surgery that cost upwards of $50,000. While this alleviated her symptoms, it amplified her frustration with Nova Scotia's healthcare system. She stated that women and gender-diverse individuals deserve timely access to necessary care and a clear government plan, which she feels is currently lacking.

NDP Leader Claudia Chender emphasized this case as a reason for Nova Scotia to implement a women's health strategy. She noted that while the current government has made some health care improvements, issues predominantly affecting women and gender-diverse people have not seen similar progress. Data obtained by the NDP indicates that waits for routine gynecological care can average two and a half to three years, and the IWK's surgical waitlist for women is three times longer than recommended.

Walker continues to wait for follow-up care in Nova Scotia, even after surgery resulted in the loss of an ovary. She described the experience as exhausting, both physically and emotionally. The Nova Scotia Department of Health and Wellness stated that while committed to improving care, a separate strategy may not be necessary, pointing to initiatives like a planned menopause centre and a recently opened pelvic health suite as evidence of progress. Interim Liberal Leader Iain Rankin supports a women's health strategy and suggested immediate measures, such as increased coverage for birth control and expanded midwifery, along with pelvic floor physiotherapy coverage, which Prince Edward Island is piloting.