Doctor shortages is forcing the province to turn to the U.S for help.
Canadian labs handling blood diagnostics were unable to support a lab in Halifax due to their own workload demands.
So spokesperson Tim Guest said, the Nova Scotia Health Authority was left with little choice.
“We looked then to the Mayo Clinic to support us because they provide a high quality service and their testing format is very similar to what we’re using in Halifax,” said Tim Guest, Vice president, Integrated Health Services and Chief Nursing Officer for the Nova Scotia Health Authority.
Guest said they can’t say whether it’s cheaper to hire more doctors than to outsource to the U.S.
“The Mayo Clinic provides a short turnaround which is essential when working in blood disease diagnostics,” said Guest.
“We are continuing to work with the Department of Health and Wellness in finding a solution. One of the solutions could be to increase our workforce,” explained Guest.
Another option is at resources available through the postgraduate medical program at Dalhousie University.
“There are four residents in the school’s training program who specialize in the kind of work being sent to the Mayo Clinic,” said Guest.
“It’s something else to look at when weighing the options.”
