Primary Health Care

Chronic Disease Management

Nationally, Nova Scotians have higher than average mortality rates related to chronic disease. Risk factors for chronic disease are also problematic, with higher than national average rates of obesity, smoking and physical inactivity. Chronic disease management is a systematic approach to improving health care for people with chronic disease.

Although chronic diseases are among the most common and costly health problems, they are also among the most preventable. Adopting healthy behaviours, such as eating nutritious foods, being physically active, and avoiding tobacco use, can prevent or control the devastating effects of these diseases. Nova Scotia's Chronic Disease Prevention Strategy targets many of these issues and will serve as a companion to a future chronic disease management strategy.

Many important foundational elements to enhance chronic disease management are currently in place or being built. Nova Scotia is in a good position to develop a comprehensive and coordinated strategy.

Your Way to Wellness

As a part of a provincial approach to address chronic disease management, the Department of Health and Wellness, through the District Health Authorities, has implemented the Stanford Chronic Disease Self-Management Program for people with chronic conditions. In Nova Scotia, the program is called Your Way to Wellness.

Your Way to Wellness is offered free of charge to people with chronic (ongoing) condition(s). People who have chronic condition(s) can attend the workshop with a family member, friend or a support person of their choice. The program aims to help those with chronic condition(s) learn skills to maintain an active and fulfilling life while living with a chronic condition(s).

More information on this program, including a program brochure, informative video, contact information and FAQ's can be found at:https://yourway2wellness.gov.ns.ca