While waiting for a new physician to arrive later this fall, the virtual physician program is now in use at the Kelvington Area and Hospital as an interim measure.
The virtual physician program is a temporary order that helps sustain and support access to emergency health services while the Saskatchewan Health Authority continues work to stabilize health human resources, particularly in rural and remote communities.
Nursing staff have remote access to a doctor with the program, with the use of the Healthline 811 technology.
The network supports the health-care team address immediate medical needs for patients who enter the ER in Kelvington. All patients are assessed, triaged and receive treatment based on their care needs.
There are 12 other communities in the province that use the virtual physician program including Lanigan and Porcupine Plain.
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.