Are there any physicians accepting new patients?
Currently, Dr. Wellwood and Dr. Sabine are not accepting new patients. If you’re seeking a family doctor, please register with the Nova Scotia Family Practice Registry.
Do you offer same-day appointments?
Yes, Drs. Wellwood and Sabine offer same-day appointments to ensure timely access to care. If same-day slots are filled, you may be directed to a local after-hours clinic at the Eastern Kings Memorial (EKM) Community Health Centre or Western Kings Memorial (WKM) Health Centre. For emergencies, please visit the Valley Regional Hospital Emergency Department.
How long will my appointment be?
Appointments are generally scheduled for 15 minutes. Some types, like initial prenatal visits, specific medical exams, and certain procedures, may require longer. If you need more time, please call us in advance to arrange this with Melissa — longer appointments cannot be booked through Pomelo.
How do I get my test results?
Your doctor reviews all test results. If a result is abnormal and requires follow-up, we will contact you to discuss a treatment plan. For normal results, we do not typically call. You can view your results anytime through YourHealthNS, or discuss them at your next scheduled appointment.
Can my doctor fill out a form?
Yes, your doctor can complete forms for you. Please bring them to the office as soon as you receive them, as form completion may take up to 60 days. Ensure all sections relevant to you (e.g., name, health care number, address, signed consent) are completed before submission. Note that a fee is typically charged for this service.
How do I let staff know I’ve arrived for my appointment?
When you arrive, please check in at the front desk with your health card. Bring your health card to every visit. If your address or phone number has changed, let the reception staff know during check-in.
Why am I asked to tell the medical office assistant the reason for booking an appointment?
Our staff asks about the nature of your visit to assess the urgency of your needs and help your doctor prepare for your appointment. All team members are trained to maintain strict confidentiality with your information. If you prefer not to share specific details, you may simply let us know that it’s for personal reasons.
Will I always see my family doctor at my appointments?
If you book directly with your doctor, you will see them. However, you may sometimes see another member of our interdisciplinary team, such as a nurse or social worker, when appropriate. If your doctor is unavailable, another physician from our team may see you, with full access to your medical history to ensure continuous, integrated care.
Can I bring someone with me to my appointment?
Yes, absolutely! Bringing a support person can be helpful for sharing information and providing additional insights. Please let us know when booking if someone will accompany you. In some cases, we may ask to see you one-on-one for part of the visit, during which your support person will be asked to step out temporarily.
How do you handle patient privacy?
Patient privacy is a top priority for us. Our team follows strict confidentiality protocols and is regularly trained on PHIA (Personal Health Information Act), which governs the handling of personal health information.
In our collaborative practice, members of your care team, beyond your primary provider, may access your chart if needed to ensure comprehensive care. For example, your doctor might ask a family practice nurse to follow up with you on a specific test result or concern. All information is handled with the utmost care and respect for your privacy.
Is there a fee if I miss an appointment?
Yes, a fee may apply if you miss an appointment without giving at least 24 hours’ notice. If you cannot attend, please notify us as soon as possible to avoid this charge. We understand that emergencies happen and will consider such situations on a case-by-case basis.
What should I bring for my appointment?
Please bring all medications in their original prescription bottles. If applicable, bring any recent blood sugar or blood pressure readings from home. For in-office injections, remember to bring the necessary vaccines or medications for the procedure.
Can I get my prescriptions over the phone?
We recommend reviewing your prescription needs during each appointment to ensure your health is properly managed. While in-office medication reviews are preferred, prescription refills can be requested by phone if you’re unable to come in. Please note that phone refills are an uninsured service, with a fee of $10.
Where can I get medical advice after-hours, when the office is closed?
For non-emergency health information, please call 811 to speak with a Registered Nurse. If you have an emergency, please call 911. The Mental Health Crisis Line operates 24/7 at 1-888-429-8167.
An after-hours clinic is located next to our office building at the Eastern Kings Memorial Community Health Centre (EKMCHC). This is available 6 days a week.
EKMCHC Hours:
Monday – Friday: 5:00pm to 9:00pm.
Sunday: 10:00am to 5:00pm (the Sunday clinic is closed from July 1 – early September)
In Berwick there is another after-hours clinic at the Western Kings Memorial Health Centre (WKMHC).
WKMHC Hours:
Monday – Friday: 5:00pm to 9:00pm.
Saturday: 10:00am to 5:00pm