Royal Victoria Regional Health Centre Primed to Tackle Cold and Flu Season with New Booking System!

As the cold and flu season approaches, the Royal Victoria Regional Health Centre (RVH) has announced that its emergency department (ED) is fully equipped to serve the community effectively. A significant innovation is the introduction of the Minor Ailment Patient Pathway (MAPP) booking portal, designed specifically to reduce wait times and alleviate overcrowding during the busy respiratory season.

The ED MAPP allows patients presenting with cold, flu, and other respiratory symptoms—along with minor injuries such as lacerations, urinary tract infections, and skin infections—to access a specialized treatment area known as the Pink Zone. This focused approach means that non-acute cases can be seen more efficiently, freeing up vital resources in the main emergency department.

Dr. Christopher Zanette, RVH’s chief of emergency medicine, emphasized the importance of this system: "The ED MAPP enables us to provide improved access to care in our community, which is especially important during cold and flu respiratory season. For some individuals, the ED is their only access to healthcare, and we want to ensure we streamline their experiences to enhance their care."

Since its launch earlier in 2023, the MAPP has seen over 5,000 patients, achieving an impressive average turnaround time of just 1.5 hours from initial consultation to departure.

With the seasonal uptick in illnesses, staying updated on vaccinations is crucial, according to Sharon Ramagnano, RVH's operations director in emergency, critical care, and trauma. She urges those feeling unwell to consult their healthcare providers, utilize local walk-in clinics, or access the ED MAPP system for timely care.

In light of ongoing health challenges, RVH reminds the community to prioritize hygiene by staying home when ill, frequently washing hands, covering sneezes and coughs, and disinfecting high-touch surfaces regularly.

The ED MAPP booking system is available for same- and next-day appointments from Monday to Friday between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. Residents can easily find the booking link on the RVH website under the Emergency Department section. With this proactive approach, RVH aims to ensure community members receive the timely and effective care they need throughout the respiratory season.

Stay prepared this cold and flu season with RVH: Make your appointment today and skip the long waiting times!