The West Parry Sound Health Centre has launched a new Virtual Waiting Room for ER patients with eligible non-urgent conditions.
According to officials, the virtual waiting room gives eligible patients the option to wait at a location of their choice, rather than the emergency room, prior to accessing in-person care. Officials say patients who join the Virtual Waiting Room will receive text message updates and instructions, including being notified when to travel to the hospital.
“We are pleased to introduce a Virtual Waiting Room that gives eligible patients more choice in how and where they wait for care,” said Victoria Langley, Chief Nursing Officer at WPSHC. “For patients with non-urgent concerns, waiting at home can be more comfortable, convenient, and supportive of their health. We also anticipate that this technology will help our care teams manage patient flow and improve infection control within our Emergency Department.”
During the initial phase, officials say up to five patients per day will be able to join the virtual waiting room, though this number is anticipated to expand.
Some of the approved non-urgent conductions include:
- a cough, cold, sore throat
- earache
- rashes
- dental pain
- prescription renewal
- suture or staple removal
- minor cuts or scrapes
- sprains and strains
- burning with urination
As in every Emergency Department, patients are treated according to the seriousness of their condition, not according to their arrival time or Virtual Waiting Room status. Offficials said, estimated wait times may change should an urgent medical need arise within the
Emergency Department.
“This initiative is about creating a better and more informed experience for patients while continuing to ensure that those with the most urgent needs receive immediate attention,” said Donald Sanderson, Chief Executive Officer at WPSHC. “It is an important step in our ongoing work to improve access, communication, and coordination for the patients and families we are privileged to serve.”
To determine whether the Virtual Waiting Room is currently available, to learn more about a health concern is eligible, or to find instructions to join the queue visit https://www.wpshc.com/wpshc-virtual-waiting-room/.
