Revolutionizing Emergency Care: RVH's New Patient Pathway Brings Relief During Respiratory Season!

As the respiratory season descends upon us, the Royal Victoria Regional Health Centre (RVH) is stepping up its game to ensure community members receive timely care. The Emergency Department (ED) has launched a groundbreaking Minor Ailment Patient Pathway (MAPP) booking portal aimed at improving patient experience and reducing overcrowding.

This innovative system, implemented at RVH, specifically targets non-acute patients—those presenting with cold, flu, and other respiratory symptoms, as well as minor injuries such as limb sprains, lacerations, urinary tract infections, and skin infections. By directing these patients to a dedicated area known as the Pink Zone, the ED MAPP effectively streamlines care, allowing for quicker treatment and shorter wait times.

Dr. Christopher Zanette, Chief of Emergency Medicine at RVH, emphasizes the importance of this initiative, stating, 'The ED MAPP enables us to provide improved access to care in our community, which is especially crucial during the peak of cold and flu season. For many, the ED is their primary gateway to healthcare, and we want to facilitate the most efficient care possible.'

Since its successful introduction in 2023, the ED MAPP has already served over 5,000 patients, with impressive results. Most individuals find themselves in and out of the health centre within approximately 1.5 hours, drastically enhancing their healthcare encounter.

In addition to utilizing the MAPP, RVH encourages everyone to stay vigilant during this respiratory season. Sharon Ramagnano, Operations Director for Emergency, Critical Care, and Trauma, stresses the significance of vaccination in maintaining public health. 'Staying up to date on vaccinations will help to keep everyone healthy this respiratory season. If you do become sick and your symptoms require a higher level of care, please follow up with your healthcare provider, visit local walk-in clinics, or access our ED MAPP online booking system.'

Moreover, RVH advises the community to practice preventive measures: stay home when sick, wash hands frequently, cover your mouth when coughing or sneezing, and regularly disinfect high-touch surfaces to mitigate the spread of illness.

With the introduction of the MAPP, RVH is not just responding to the immediate health needs of the community but is also paving the way for a more efficient healthcare system during one of the busiest seasons of the year. Don’t let minor ailments linger; take advantage of this innovative service to secure your health and well-being!