Dartmouth General Hospital Cardiac Health Program - Member's Statement

CLAUDIA CHENDER « » : Mr. Speaker, I rise today to acknowledge the launch of the African Nova Scotian Heart Health Outreach Program at the Dartmouth General Hospital. The Dartmouth General is the third-busiest hospital in the province, and in its catchment are several of Nova Scotia's historic Black communities, including East Preston, North Preston, Cherry Brook, and Lake Loon.

We know that African Nova Scotians do not access health care at the same rate as other residents. One outcome of this is negative and worrying cardiac health outcomes. This program is intended to study the underlying reasons for this discrepancy and improve cardiac health diagnosis and treatment for African Nova Scotian communities at the Dartmouth General.

As we continue to celebrate African Heritage Month, I am pleased to see informed research into the health of African Nova Scotians become a priority in Dartmouth and to celebrate the leadership of Dartmouth General Hospital, in particular Sharon Davis- Murdoch, in this regard.

THE SPEAKER « » : The honourable member for Bedford.