Halifax, N.S., August 13, 2025 – WCB Nova Scotia is launching a new program that helps people recover from workplace injury sooner. The program will improve access to care, reduce wait times, and ensure more consistent care – all while workers stay connected to work as part of recovery.
Following a competitive procurement process, WCB will work with Lifemark Health Group to launch the new Work-Connected Recovery Program, while it continues to improve what are now some of Canada’s worst statistics in time loss from work.
The new program will help people with workplace physical and psychological injuries get care sooner and more consistently. Lifemark has 25 years of experience delivering these services across the country and currently provides care to one-third of Nova Scotians injured at work. They will begin administering the program in January 2026.
Today, more than 500 providers operate separately within the workers’ compensation system – creating a patchwork system over the years that’s been too slow and inconsistent in how people access care and stay connected to work as they recover.
In the new program, Lifemark will build a province-wide network of providers that puts workers first. Workers can expect faster care and recovery, an easier system to navigate, the same quality of care – no matter where they go, and greater system accountability that will help Nova Scotians recover and return to work sooner. Workers will also receive up to 12 months of follow-up – more than twice the industry standard - to support recovery and reduce injury.
“I’ve listened to workers and employers across the province, and they deliver the same message – workers wait too long for care, too much time is lost to injuries, and the system is confusing and lacks accountability,” says Karen Adams, CEO of the WCB Nova Scotia. “This new program responds to these issues and is a big step forward in restoring accountability into our system.”
Workers can also expect better access: rapid contact within 48 hours of a referral, virtual care across the province, and providers close to home – helping to address some of the recommendations outlined in the Review of the N.S. Workers’ Compensation System.
Nova Scotia has highly skilled people providing care to Nova Scotians injured at work. All current providers are being invited to apply to join the new network – where they’ll follow consistent standards and processes that best serve Nova Scotians.
In 2024, more than 1 million working days were lost due to workplace injuries in this province. The Work-Connected Recovery Program supports WCB’s Protect More Strategic Plan 2024-2030 that aims to reduce time lost from work by 35% by 2030.
Additional Quotes
“As a board member, I’m proud of this change. The WCB is making the type of changes called for in the Review Report to create a stronger system, which will benefit everyone. As a labour leader, I’m pleased that this program puts worker recovery first. This program will give nurses and other Nova Scotia workers hurt on the job a better and more consistent care experience – one that keeps them connected to work, while they recover from injury.” – Janet Hazelton, President, Nova Scotia Nurses Union, and a worker representative on the WCB Board of Directors.
“Our priority has always been putting injured workers first and taking a creative approach on how to achieve their goals. By better integrating care, recovery, and resources in our rural communities, we can help people heal and get back to work sooner. We’ll be applying to join the network so we can continue supporting workers in Yarmouth and the surrounding communities.” – Chelsea Surette, a co-owner, Acadian Shores Health Centre.
“We are honored to work alongside care providers across Nova Scotia, sharing knowledge, best practices, and technology to enable the connections needed to improve access and outcomes for workers. By combining innovation with compassion, we help ensure every worker feels supported, valued, and empowered on their path to recovery.” – Sonya Lockyer, President and CEO, Lifemark Health Group
Quick Facts
- WCB supports over 10,000 workers a year with physical and psychological injuries.
- In 2024, the average number of treatments for a sprain was 30 compared to the 10 or fewer generally recommended.
- A person with a traumatic psychological injury currently waits an average of 42 days after referral before treatment. This program aims to cut this by half or more.
More information
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Media contact:
Hillary MacEachern, Manager, Communications
Hillary.maceachern@wcb.ns.ca
902-399-6934