A pilot project from the Saskatchewan Health Authority could help to take a bit of the pressure off for wait times in emergency departments, keep patients from having to go to emergency unnecessarily and save paramedics time by not having to wait with these patients at the hospital.

Medavie’s Manager of Professional Development, Carla Roy, explains that during the pilot in Saskatoon, paramedics can consult with a triage physician on the phone for guidance and support where it has been determined a patient could be released or referred to another health-care provider, rather than transporting to emergency. Where this could happen would be in cases of hypoglycemia, heat illness, mild to moderate allergic reactions with dissipating symptoms, falls, minor lacerations or abrasions and flu-like illness.

Roy stresses there will be follow-up with the patient by Primary Health Care or a family physician if necessary. The pilot will take place over the next six to 12 months, and if it is deemed successful, it could expand to Regina.