More Pharmacy Professionals Calling Nova Scotia Home: International Recruitment Initiative Delivers Results
Over 1,000 qualified international pharmacy professionals have expressed interest in practicing in Nova Scotia
December 5, 2025 (Dartmouth, NS) The Pharmacy Association of Nova Scotia (PANS) and the Nova Scotia Pharmacy Regulator (NSPR) are celebrating the success of their joint international recruitment initiative, RxNS. Since launching in December 2023, this initiative has attracted qualified pharmacy professionals from the United States, Great Britain, Australia, New Zealand, and the Republic of Ireland.
The RxNS recruitment initiative supports internationally trained pharmacists and pharmacy technicians through a full-time Recruitment Navigator. This role has been crucial in guiding candidates through the immigration and licensing processes, connecting them with prospective employers, and helping them settle in Nova Scotia. Recruitment trips to the five eligible jurisdictions have also helped to attract prospective pharmacy professionals and students to the unique practice opportunities in Nova Scotia.
The initiative has yielded significant results for the province’s healthcare system:
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103 pharmacy professionals from the eligible jurisdictions are currently licensed in Nova Scotia
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105 additional professionals are currently in the immigration/licensing process
“Our priority is ensuring the public has access to safe, competent pharmacy care.” says Beverley Zwicker, NSPR CEO and Registrar. “By efficiently bringing qualified professionals into the system, we aren't just filling vacancies; we are ensuring that pharmacies across the province have the capacity to deliver the high-quality care Nova Scotians deserve.”
Jay, a pharmacist originally from the US, is one of these professionals. He shares that “moving to Nova Scotia with my family has been such a great decision. Everything in pharmacy is so different up here, starting with the people. My team and I are empowered to do everything in pharmacy we are supposed to but were never able to do back home.”
“The initiative has been remarkable,” agrees Allison Bodnar, PANS CEO. “Communities across the province have welcomed internationally trained pharmacies into their pharmacy teams where they are needed most.”
Jay (quoted above) recently joined a team led by Krista McClair, manager of a small community pharmacy in Annapolis Royal. For McClair, the recruitment initiative has been a lifeline for maintaining community care.
“Small communities are reliant on their pharmacy teams to provide accessible care. And with pharmacist shortages, pharmacy teams can always use help,” shares McClair. “When Jay expressed interest in joining our team, we were delighted. Not only does he bring a wealth of experience, but he also truly cares for his new team and community. We are lucky to have him!”
With recruitment activities and engagement events already planned for 2026, PANS and NSPR are committed to continuing this momentum to support the health of all Nova Scotians. For more information, visit rxns.ca.
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Quick Facts
- RxNS launched December 5, 2023.
- A total of 208 professionals are either licensed (103) or currently in the immigration/licensing process (105).
- 69 pharmacy professionals from the eligible jurisdictions are currently practicing in Nova Scotia
- The streamlined licensing pathway applies to pharmacists registered/licensed in Great Britain, Republic of Ireland, New Zealand, Australia, and the United States, as well as pharmacy technician registered in Great Britain.
- Marketing videos featuring new-to-Nova Scotia pharmacists, including Cayla, Sabrena, Dave, Lindsey & Josh, have reached wide audiences as part of marketing campaigns throughout the year. RxNS videos can be found here: tinyurl.com/RxNSStories
- Interested candidates can visit RxNS.ca to learn more about Nova Scotia and connect with the Recruitment Navigator.
For media inquiries, contact:
Martha Lowe Leanne Lagsiar
Communications Manager Communications Manager
Pharmacy Association of Nova Scotia Nova Scotia Pharmacy Regulator