New consent system for Nova Scotians to opt in for clinical trials and other research

Nova Scotia Premier Tim Houston says the province is making it easier for residents to voluntarily participate in potentially groundbreaking medical research. Houston attends a photo-op at the Ontario legislature in Toronto on Monday, March 2, 2026. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Chris Young

HALIFAX — Nova Scotia Premier Tim Houston says the province is poised to become a world leader when it comes to offering residents the opportunity to easily take part in medical research.

Houston announced Tuesday that Nova Scotians can now voluntarily consent to participate in clinical trials or other research through a new, streamlined process. Those who sign up will grant researchers various levels of access to their electronic health records, an area where Nova Scotia is considered a leader.

Previously, researchers seeking access to health records had to go through a largely manual, paper-based process. Health officials say the new approach is sure to speed things up.

Houston said the goal is to accelerate the pace of medical innovation and make Nova Scotia a magnet for health research.

“Nova Scotian’s have the opportunity now to be part of groundbreaking discoveries in cancer care, women’s health, chronic disease management and general health-care research,” the premier told a news conference in Halifax.

“We’re not aware of any other jurisdiction in the world that is giving its residents the opportunity to say yes to participating in medical research.”

A health official said the project marks a big step forward for the province.

“There are other provinces (that have electronic health records), but not to the same scale and size,” said Dr. Ashley Hilchie, senior research director with Nova Scotia Health. “This is a leading example for Canada.”

Residents can sign up when they register or renew their health card, or by contacting Medical Services Insurance, the province’s public health insurance program. They can also use a new web-based portal called MSI Online.

Options for participants include consenting to be contacted if they are a potential match for a clinical trial or other medical study. They can also consent to allowing their biological samples and health information to be used to support research.

As well, participants can give consent for their health information to be used in studies aimed at developing medical devices, drugs or other treatments. And the final option allows for sharing health information with approved organizations and businesses developing new drugs, devices and technologies.

Hilchie said protecting privacy is a top priority.

“Every single research project must go through a comprehensive review,” she said.

“This work is done to ensure that all information is used responsibly and securely.... There are many rules and requirements that researchers must meet in order to use this information.”

Asked if Nova Scotians might be reluctant to share their health data given widespread problems with online security breaches and ransomware attacks, Houston conceded that some people will be nervous about taking part.

“There will probably be some off-the-wall theories about what’s driving this,” he said. “But ... these are accredited researchers and accredited trials. All of the personal information protections that could possibly be in place will be in place with this.”

Those who choose to take part can select one, some or all of the options. Participation is strictly voluntary and open only to Nova Scotians who are 19 or older. And preferences can be changed or withdrawn at any time.

“Every cure and treatment begins with research,” Frank MacMaster, vice-president of research at the IWK Health Centre in Halifax, said in a statement. “Participation in research is the first critical step in that journey.”

This report by The Canadian Press was first published April 28, 2026.

Michael MacDonald, The Canadian Press