Ensuring equal access to IV iron in Saskatchewan
The Saskatchewan Health Authority (SHA) Iron Deficiency Anemia (IDA) Management Program is improving access to intravenous (IV) iron for Saskatchewan patients who can’t be treated with oral iron.
IDA can cause tiredness, shortness of breath, and reduced quality of life. Treatment options include iron supplements in a pill or IV form.
“For patients who have problems with oral iron, IV iron is a great option,” stated Ben Kinsley, SHA IDA Program Pharmacist
A network of 67 sites throughout Saskatchewan now offer outpatient IV iron treatments through this program. Patients who meet eligibility criteria can receive this treatment closer to home, at no cost to them.
This program is an example of how staff live the SHA's CARES values values of compassion, accountability, respect, equity and safety, in their work. The IDA Management Program provides equitable access to high-quality care, improving patient outcomes, and supplying health-care providers with processes and resources, no matter where they live in Saskatchewan.
Members of the Ambulatory Care Team at Pasqua Hospital in Regina administer iron regularly as part of the SHA’s Iron Deficiency Anemia Management Program.