Saskatchewan Health Authority to launch EMS treatment and referral pilot project

The Saskatchewan Health Authority (SHA) launched an Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Treatment and Referral pilot project in Saskatoon today that expands the scope of practice for paramedics responding to 911 calls to ensure patients are receiving adequate and timely care while easing pressures on emergency rooms.

As part of the pilot, paramedics will have the ability to consult a Virtual Triage Physician for guidance and support in situations where they determine a patient could be released or referred to another health-care provider (e.g. family physician) rather than transporting them to the emergency department. Only adult patients will be included in the pilot at this time.

“Paramedics have the front-line assessment skills through education and experience to safely treat specific urgent conditions in a patient’s home setting,” Mental Health and Addictions, Seniors, and Rural and Remote Health Minister Everett Hindley said. “By further empowering our frontline health-care workers with innovative and flexible options, we are able to better address patient needs and alleviate emergency room pressures.”

The SHA has identified six initial protocols that will be included as part of the pilot, including: hypoglycemia, heat illness, mild to moderate allergic reactions with dissipating symptoms, falls, minor lacerations or abrasions without active bleeding as well as influenza-like illness.

“We are looking forward to the positive impact this new process will have on patient care,” SHA Executive Director of Provincial Services-Community Care Rod MacKenzie said. “This is a great opportunity to better address patient needs while reducing delays for EMS and our hospitals.”

The pilot project will take place in Saskatoon over the next six to 12 months with the participation of Medavie Health Services West. Pending project outcomes, the goal is to expand the pilot through a phased approach to Regina and additional ambulance services.