A new pilot project is helping to reduce the time Islanders spend waiting to be seen at walk-in clinics, says Minister of Health and Wellness Doug Currie.
“Skip the Waiting Room is an innovative new pilot project that makes it more convenient for Islanders to access health care services,” said Minister Currie. “Instead of spending time in the waiting room when they are ill, Islanders now have the option to register online and wait at home or at work to see a doctor.”
Skip the Waiting Room allows patients to register online for an appointment at the clinic, quickly and securely. Several time slots at the end of each clinic are allocated for the patients who sign up online. When the appointment time nears, the patient receives a call or text message telling them to depart for their appointment. Online patients are seen only after all patients who have signed up in person are seen.
Skip the Waiting Room was developed by Islander Mark Richardson, with assistance from the Skills PEI Ignition Fund, which helps Islanders grow an idea or business.
“This project is one example of how technology is improving access to health services, and the Department of Health and Wellness is pleased to support the implementation of the pilot with funding of $40,000 over the next 12 months,” Minister Currie said.
The project is being piloted at the Boardwalk Professional Center - Downtown Walk in Clinic for one year.