 News
Southlake Regional Health Centre
Announces New Fast Track Service
Newmarket, August 28, 2003 - On Tuesday, September 2, 2003,
Southlake Regional Health Centre will open a new Fast Track Service.
Operating similar to a walk-in clinic, this service will enhance
the Hospital's existing Emergency Program and will operate from
11:00 a.m. until midnight, seven days a week with dedicated physician
coverage at all times.
The Fast Track Service is intended to provide individuals with
a reliable alternative when they require care for less urgent injuries
and conditions and their family doctor's office is closed or cannot
accommodate a last minute appointment. It will also ensure timely
access to health care services for the growing number of northern
York Region residents who do not have a family physician due to
the existing shortage of doctors accepting new patients.
According to Dr. Stephen Cluff, medical director for the Hospital's
emergency program, the Fast Track Service is expected to improve
waiting times in Southlake's busy emergency department.
Dr. Cluff said, "People often feel frustrated when they come
to the Emergency Department because they aren't aware that the most
critical or seriously injured people must be treated first. In our
busy department, this can result in some people with minor conditions
having to wait several hours to see a physician." He added,
"Our Fast Track Service will operate on a first-come, first
serve basis, ensuring that people with less urgent needs are seen
faster, while allowing the Emergency Team to devote their full attention
to patients with more complicated conditions."
Other benefits of the Fast Track Service include, rapid turnaround
for lab work and x-ray services and access to Southlake's clinics
and programs, such as hand and fracture clinics, when follow-up
is required.
The Clinic will be temporarily located on the first floor of Southlake's
west building, adjacent to the existing Emergency Department. When
the new Emergency Department opens in the winter of this year, it
will include a separate, dedicated space for the Fast Track Service.
Individuals wishing to access the Fast Track Service should report
to the Emergency Department where they will be assessed by a registered
nurse and directed to the level of care that is most appropriate
for their condition.
Fast
Track Service when non-emergency care is needed....
additional information click here....
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