A new patient care and entertainment system, "Patient Connect" is being installed at Yorkton Regional Health Centre. It's the first of its kind in Saskatchewan and the new equipment is expected to offer patients multiple services on one bedside unit.
Through the use of a touch-screen television, healthcare providers can access the patient's records and health care information at the patients' bedside, says Diane McDougall, Director of Health Services. Patients can use the system to access internet, telephone, and television.
"The Patient Connect system allows us to offer patients several entertainment options not previously available and gives healthcare providers more clinical tools and time at the bedside to focus on patient care, record keeping and health education. It truly gives us the best of both worlds with one device."
The system works by inserting a pre-paid "Patient Connect Card" into the bottom of the individual Patient Connect unit at the bedside. The patient can then access the internet, television and/or telephone services they have purchased. Patients, family members or friends can go to one of the kiosks that will be installed in Yorkton Regional Health Centre to purchase a Patient Connect Card which can be loaded with a dollar amount, depending on the services desired ($3-$12 per day). Cash, debit and credit card purchases are accepted.
Patients not well enough to go to the kiosks may ask for a blank card from the nurse's station and follow instructions on their Patient Connect screen using a personal credit card.
When the Patient Connect system is being used by healthcare providers for clinical care, there is no charge to the patient.
The initiative is a joint project of the Sunrise Health Region and The Health Foundation. Donations to The Health Foundation have helped to support the clinical applications adds McDougall.
"The revenues generated from the purchase of entertainment services will help pay for installation, ongoing operating costs and maintenance of the system."
