The Saskatchewan government says patients with complex medical needs will be better served thanks to a new health care initiative.
Connecting to Care uses a patient-centred care model that identifies patients with complex needs who repeatedly need hospital services or visit emergency departments.
A team of providers helps these patients receive alternative, more appropriate services in the community and follows up to ensure they are supported in improving their health.
“Our health system needs to better meet the needs of patients who have complex health issues,” Health Minister Dustin Duncan said. “This innovative pilot project will mean more coordinated, accessible and appropriate health services for these patients, and fewer preventable visits to the hospital.”
Connecting to Care pilot projects are now underway in Regina and Saskatoon.
The Regina pilot project has enrolled 25 clients to date, focusing on patients with chronic health conditions who have repeatedly been admitted to hospital for acute care.
A multidisciplinary team coordinating client care includes a Primary Health Care nurse and Primary Health Care counsellor who provide services based on individual needs.
Two client wellness advocates assist with health education, help clients navigate health services and act as patient liaisons.
The team works with physicians and other health care providers in the community to develop coordinated patient plans that complement and support existing care.
Recent national and international analysis shows that a very small number of patients account for most health system costs.
Data from the Health Quality Council indicates that, in Saskatchewan, one per cent of patients account for approximately 21 per cent of hospital costs.
Connecting to Care is expected to help avoid preventable hospital admissions for patients and, over time, improve the sustainability of the health care system by curbing health care costs.
Saskatchewan provided $1.5 million in 2014-15 for Connecting to Care, including the two pilot projects. Future funding and program expansion will be based on positive evaluation results.
– Compiled from a Government of Saskatchewan news release
