Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Why is WCB Nova Scotia changing the approach to treating workplace injuries?
Nova Scotia has the highest rates in Canada for lost time from work, health care costs, and the likelihood of permanent injury following a workplace injury. In fact, over one million days each year are lost to workplace injuries.
These are workers that could be building your roads and homes, caring for the elderly, responding to emergencies, and opening small businesses.
We need Nova Scotians back to work, because that leads to:
- Better physical, psychological, and financial outcomes for injured workers
- A stronger and more sustainable workforce in our province
- More efficient and effective use of valuable health services in the community
2. How did WCB Nova Scotia determine what requirements and criteria were needed from health service providers in this RFP?
WCB Nova Scotia 2024-2030 Strategic Plan outlines a vision for a safer Nova Scotia, where people are better protected from workplace injuries than they are today. In July 2024, a comprehensive review of the Nova Scotia workers’ compensation system was completed. This review identified accountability among all stakeholders, including healthcare providers, as a key opportunity to improve the system’s effectiveness, efficiency, and value for both workers and employers.
The requirements and guidelines outlined in the RFP were developed with careful thought and informed by both the strategic plan and a comprehensive review of the Nova Scotia workers’ compensation system. The resulting RFP represents a critical step toward achieving shared success in work-connected recovery for both physical and psychological injuries.
3. What will be the outcome of the RFP?
Effective Jan. 1, 2026, the successful service provider(s) selected during the RFP process will replace the current health service delivery for tiered services, TPI and GPI. Unlike in the past, there will not be an open application for service providers on an ongoing basis.
4. Where can I get more information?
Details will be shared within the RFP. Any questions you have can be sent to wcrrfp@wcb.ns.ca, and all responses to these questions will be posted as addendums to the RFP on the Nova Scotia Government Public Tender Site.
Additional Resources: