System Review 2024

On August 30, 2024, the Government of Nova Scotia released its report on the review of workers’ compensation in Nova Scotia.

The findings reflected the feedback and lived experiences of workers and employers. We are grateful for the work of the Review Committee.

System review findings

The report identified opportunities to serve Nova Scotians better. As the largest part of the system, WCB Nova Scotia has an important role to play.

We know we need to do better, and we are already well on a path of change. Many findings align with areas our CEO, Karen Adams, had identified for improvement:

  • It takes WCB too long to get back to people, and service does not always provide the service workers and employers need and expect.
  • Too many people remain on short-term benefits too long, and too many transition to long-term benefits.
  • We need a renewed focus on solving these problems through exceptional service and stronger partnerships.

One year after the review—what’s changed

The review was a turning point. It validated changes already underway in our 2024–2030 Protect More Strategic Plan—and highlighted new challenges that demanded action.

When the review was released, Nova Scotia had some of the lowest benefits in Canada, the longest return-to-work times, and the highest employer rate at $2.65 per $100 of payroll. Fewer than half of injured workers were back at work within 30 days—compared to 70%+ in leading provinces. We got to work.

Progress (as of fall 2025)

  • Faster decisions and payments First contact within 2 business days, decisions in 7 days, first payment in 15—targets we’re on track to exceed this year
  • Stronger return to work Back-to-work in 30 days improved from 46% (Jan 2024) to 76% (Fall 2025), supported by the new Duty to Cooperate legislation and earlier intervention
  • Better support for psychological injury Expanded support for gradual onset psychological injuries
  • Injury prevention gains Workplace injuries at historic lows—focused work in high-injury sectors is showing progress across all of them
  • System strength Fully funded (115%) as of Fall 2025 (up from 106.7% at end of 2024), creating room to responsibly strengthen benefits and reduce employer rates over time
  • Easier access to information A new website makes key information easier to find, with more improvements planned for 2026

  • Improved digital services

    A claim open text message to workers, confirming when their claim is open and telling them their claim number

  • Accountability and transparency A dedicated accountability website reports on service levels, outcomes, and progress toward our goals
  • Safer Workplaces Together A new, government-partnered program to sharpen collaboration in prevention efforts

More to come

We’re proud of what we’ve accomplished since the review. But we know there’s much more to do. We’re working hard to continue building a system that makes a real difference—protecting more workers, better supporting workplaces, and strengthening Nova Scotia’s economy.

Because we all want the same thing: Nova Scotians working.

Last updated: 2025-10-30
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