THUNDER BAY – As the COVID-19 pandemic continues, Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre is launching a new virtual emergency department.
The program, which could treat up to 30 patients per day, will offer same-day virtual assessments with physicians for people who are older than 17, have a non-life-threatening medical issue and either don’t have a primary care provider or timely access to one.
It could keep up to 420 patients per month out of the emergency department.
“The virtual ED program provides patients with safe, quality emergency care from the comfort of their homes,” said Dr. Bradley Jacobson, chief of emergency/trauma medicine at the hospital, in a release issued on Monday.
“Virtual assessments are a convenient and accessible care option for patients who qualify, especially at-risk patients who wish to avoid a trip to the hospital and time spent in a waiting room during the COVID-19 pandemic.”
Each appointment will be scheduled for 15 minutes, with time allowed to connect with a patient’s device, review their details, perform the assessment and determine any potential next steps. Patients could be referred to community programs, specialists, diagnostic imaging procedures or lab work upon discharge.
Prescriptions may also be provided.
“We’re excited about the positive benefits this program will have for our Emergency Department and for our patients and their families,” said Lisa Beck, director of trauma, pre-hospital programs, emergency, critical care and nurse-led outreach Team at TBRHSC.
“In addition to the convenience of care from the comfort of people’s homes, diverting unnecessary visits to our ED will result in increased overall capacity and reduced wait times for those who still need to attend in person.”
Same-day appointments, which will take place through a secure video chat, will be booked between noon and 6 p.m. on a first-come, first-served basis to those who are eligible, at www.tbrhsc.net/VirtualED.
To take part, patients need a computer or smart phone with video, a quiet space and internet access.
