Virtual physician support service being tested at several hospitals in Alberta

On January 20th, emergency rooms in Lac La Biche, Elk Point, Hinton, and Beaverlodge began a virtual physician support service when in-person doctors aren’t available. This new pilot project allows doctors to assess and diagnose patients remotely via phone or video, with nurses continuing to provide on-site care. The service will handle non-life-threatening issues, and if needed, patients can be transferred to other facilities for more urgent care. The initiative is part of a six-month project to address physician shortages in northern Alberta communities.