Aberdeen Hospital - New Glasgow

About Aberdeen Hospital

Aberdeen Hospital in New Glasgow, Nova Scotia is Pictou County's regional acute care facility, operating a 24/7 Level II trauma emergency department that sees approximately 30,000 visits per year. The modern 25,000-square-foot ED, redeveloped in 2017, features two trauma bays, isolation rooms, critical care-equipped treatment spaces, and direct helipad access. Serving roughly 48,000 residents across New Glasgow, Trenton, Stellarton, Westville, Pictou, and surrounding areas, this is the appropriate destination for serious emergencies, trauma, and complex medical needs in northern Nova Scotia.

Services & Specialties

24/7 Emergency Medicine (Level II Trauma), Anesthesia, Cardiology, Diagnostic Imaging, General Surgery, Internal Medicine, Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ophthalmology, Orthopedics, Pathology, Pediatrics, Psychiatry, Urology, On-site Pharmacy with Chemotherapy Preparation Unit, Mental Health and Addictions Support (Pictou County Recovery Support Centre), Early Mobility Program for Patients 65+, Ambulance Bay, Helipad Access.

Amenities

• Free parking
• Free public WiFi
• On-site pharmacy (includes chemotherapy drug preparation unit)
• Cafeteria (Mon–Fri 8 a.m.–6 p.m.; Sat–Sun 9:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m.)
• Vending machines (available 24/7 in cafeteria area)
• Non-denominational chapel (second level)
• Gift shop (Mon–Fri 10 a.m.–4 p.m.; Sat–Sun noon–6 p.m.; extended holiday hours)
• Pictou County Recovery Support Centre (on-site mental health and addictions)
• Wheelchair accessible facility
• Patient drop-off zone at ED entrance

Other Care Options

Not every health issue needs an ER visit. Find out where to go for care →

Pharmacists in Nova Scotia can assess and prescribe for dozens of common conditions. See what they can treat →

Compare hospital wait times across Canada. View all wait times →

Tips Before You Go

• The emergency department has its own dedicated entrance at the south end of the hospital — you do not need to enter through the main hospital doors, which saves time during an emergency.
• If you or a loved one is experiencing a mental health crisis, you can call the Nova Scotia mental health mobile crisis line at 1-888-429-8167, available 24/7, before deciding whether to visit the ED.
• Patients aged 65 and older may be referred to the Early Mobility Program during their ED or inpatient stay — ask staff about this program if you are concerned about strength or mobility after illness.
• Aberdeen Hospital's ED sees around 30,000 visits per year. Like most regional EDs, Monday mornings and evenings tend to be busier — if your concern is non-urgent, consider timing your visit for mid-morning on a weekday.
• You are welcome to bring up to two support persons with you under Nova Scotia Health's Family Presence Policy — designate them clearly when you register at triage.

What to Bring

• Government-issued photo ID (driver's licence or passport)
• Nova Scotia Health Card (provincial health card)
• List of all current medications, dosages, and prescribing doctors
• Any relevant medical records, recent lab results, or imaging reports
• List of known allergies (medications and otherwise)
• Insurance information if applicable (for non-insured services)
• Phone charger or portable battery pack — waits can be lengthy
• Snacks, water, and a warm layer for comfort during your wait

Frequently Asked Questions

About ER Wait Times

Emergency departments use triage. Patients with more serious conditions are seen first, regardless of arrival time.

Wait times are estimates based on Nova Scotia health data. Actual wait times may vary.

If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call 911 immediately.