After facing neglect from the healthcare system for years, Kate MacKinnon expressed relief in finally receiving the appropriate treatment. She has been under the care of the Nova Scotia Sisterhood, a group of all-Black female healthcare professionals dedicated to providing culturally sensitive services for nearly a year. This program caters to African Nova Scotian and Black women, as well as gender-diverse individuals aged 19 and above, irrespective of having a family physician, within the province’s central health zone.
In a recent interview with CBC News, MacKinnon emphasized that the Sisterhood offers more than just medical care. She feels acknowledged and understood, possibly for the first time in her life. Launched officially in 2023, the initiative drew inspiration from its successful counterpart, the Nova Scotia Brotherhood, and is backed by the Health Association of African Canadians’ research and advocacy.
The team relocated to a new clinic on Wyse Road in Dartmouth in July, where they provide a wide array of services ranging from Pap tests, blood pressure monitoring, and chronic disease management to clinical therapy and nutritional guidance. Operated through the Nova Scotia Health Authority, the program aims to dismantle the systemic barriers often encountered by Black women when navigating the healthcare system, as explained by Natalie Johnson, the team lead and registered dietitian.
MacKinnon shared her journey of healing physically and mentally from past experiences of racism and discrimination. She mentioned that conventional healthcare settings rarely acknowledged how these experiences impacted her overall well-being. Tykora Brinton, the family practice nurse handling new patient intakes, highlighted the strain on the healthcare system, emphasizing the limited time physicians have with each patient. However, at the Sisterhood, initial appointments last an hour, allowing for more comprehensive discussions.
Nurse practitioner Kiersten Boyle revealed that she has conducted over 1,000 office visits since May, with many patients overdue for routine screenings like Pap tests. This aligns with research indicating that Black women in Nova Scotia are less likely to undergo breast and cervical cancer screenings. Boyle emphasized that negative experiences in healthcare settings often deter patients from seeking necessary care.
Recognizing the reluctance in seeking care, the Sisterhood also extends its services directly to select African Nova Scotian communities. On Wednesdays, a family doctor rotates between satellite clinics in Halifax, Dartmouth, Upper Hammonds Plains, East Preston, and North Preston, addressing transportation and accessibility challenges for patients. While plans for expanding the program’s reach remain uncertain, MacKinnon expressed the need for the initiative to extend its services across the province, especially in rural areas, to ensure all Black women in Nova Scotia receive the same level of care she has benefited from.
