Virtual physician program to keep Kipling emergency room open

In July 2024, the Saskatchewan Health Authority (SHA) will expand the virtual physician program to the emergency room (ER) at the Kipling Integrated Health Centre as an interim measure while physician recruitment efforts are underway. The program will ensure emergency health services remain available in Kipling.

As part of the provincial government’s Health Human Resource (HHR) Action Plan, recruitment and retention of health-care workers remains a priority. The virtual physician program is a temporary measure that helps sustain and support access to emergency health services while the SHA continues to stabilize health human resources, particularly in rural and remote communities.

Two new physicians have been recruited to fill upcoming vacancies over the summer; the first will arrive in Kipling later this month, and the second will arrive this fall.

The virtual physician program will continue to address the emergent medical needs of patients presenting at the ER when no local physicians are available to provide in-person coverage.

Using the existing technology of HealthLine 811, the virtual physician program provides nursing staff with remote access to a physician. All patients are assessed, triaged, and receive treatment based on their care needs.

Through the virtual physician program, residents in Kipling will continue to receive safe, high-quality, patient-centered care as close to home as possible.

Kipling is the seventh community to benefit from the innovative program. To date, it has been successfully launched in Porcupine Plain, Oxbow, Broadview, Davidson, Gravelbourg, and Lanigan.

Individuals requiring emergency services should call 9-1-1. Non-urgent health-related questions may be directed to the 24/7 HealthLine service by calling 8-1-1.