When you are crossing the border during a health situation, inter-provincial health file transfers can be challenging to say the least at times.
Members of the public shared concerns about the inability for someone living in Saskatchewan to have their health records sent to a specialist in Alberta and vice-versa.
The source reached out to the Saskatchewan Health Authority for clarification on how this works, especially here when it's such a frequent occurrence. James Winkle is a media relations specialist with the SHA and explained the process and challenges in an e-mail to the Source.
"Saskatchewan and Alberta each use their own digital infrastructure to hold and access patient information electronically; we appreciate that these differences can at times create challenges for patients and healthcare providers," said Winkle. "Health information, privacy and digital health staff from both provinces are currently working together to identify opportunities to reduce these types of occurrences."
He says the Lloydminster Hospital is set up to access both of the health systems and when you encounter an emergency situation there is a plan in place to have your records go with you.
"When electronic records cannot be exchanged hard copies of patient records are provided so the patient can share their health information with health care services providers in the neighboring province," stated Winkle. "In emergency situations, information is shared that goes with EMS and the patient between sites."
"Physicians involved, as well as other clinicians, will work to ensure that necessary information is shared in order to safely and effectively deliver care."
If you live in Saskatchewan, you can access your own health files and add information to it by going to MySaskHealthRecord, a secure website or app made available by SHA. All information such as clinical visit history, laboratory test results, medical imaging reports, immunizations and prescription history is stored securely and can only be accessed through a highly secure personalized log-in.
Stay with the Meridian Source as we continue to bring you more stories on healthcare in our community.
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