Dr. Justin Blaauwendraat became interested in medicine after his father had his right leg amputated under knee following an injury. "Through watching his father’s journey to recovery and observing the relationship between his father and family doctor, Dr. Blaauwendraat became drawn to medicine. He pursued the development of the set of skills necessary to one day provide that same nurturing care and offer an empathetic approach to the doctor-patient relationship in the care of his patients.

After pursuing junior hockey, Dr. Blaauwendraat transferred to a small college in Grand Rapids, Michigan, which allowed him to keep playing hockey while also focusing on his academic pursuits. He then enrolled in Ross University School of Medicine in Barbados, one of the ‘Big Four’ Caribbean medical schools. He completed medical training in London, England, various US states, and Canada, which provided exposure to several healthcare systems and a hands-on approach to the foundations of medicine. Dr. Blaauwendraat completed his residency in family medicine at Michigan State University - Mercy Health, Grand Rapids in Michigan.

Upon completion of residency, Dr. Blaauwendraat and his wife returned to their hometown of Truro, Nova Scotia where he has been practicing since 2018.

“I am working in my dream practice,” said Dr. Blaauwendraat. “I am part of a busy collaborative practice, working hand in hand with Family Practice Nurses and a Nurse Practitioner. I practice full scope family medicine, with work as inpatient hospitalist and nursing home coverage.”

With a strong interest in sports medicine, Dr. Blaauwendraat provides coverage to the Truro Bearcats, the local Junior A hockey team, and field coverage for large sporting events in the area.

“If you want the opportunity to practice full scope medicine and pursue your personal interests in an environment that is well supported and where your voice and input matter then Nova Scotia is the place for you,” explained Dr. Blaauwendraat.

Dr. Blaauwendraat is also involved in academics with the Dalhousie North Nova Family Medicine residency program, working with residents in the office and their didactic learning, and supporting medical school clerks. Additionally, he is the medical director for regional senior’s homes at Shannex.

When asked why a doctor should consider Nova Scotia, Dr. Blaauwendraat says, “the work life balance and opportunity to explore all that this great province has to offer. You are supported by other colleagues and government leadership. Your contribution matters and makes a significant impact on the lives of the people that make up this province.

In his spare time, Dr. Blaauwendraat enjoys spending time his wife and two young children. Recently, he has taken the role of coaching soccer and hockey. Dr. Blaauwendraat enjoys staying active and getting outdoors year-round, whether it’s running, cycling, mountain biking, hockey, snowshoeing, finding a new trail to hike, or finding some down time to read a good book on the back deck or nearest beach.

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