IWK Blood Collection Booking Site Disrupted by New Medical Record System
The IWK Health Centre is currently facing disruptions in its blood collection booking system due to the implementation of a new electronic medical record system, known as One Person One Record (OPOR). This significant change began in December at the Halifax facility and aims to consolidate over 80 existing programs, including paper records, impacting various aspects of Nova Scotia’s healthcare.
Impact of the New Medical Record System
Since the rollout of OPOR, the IWK’s online blood collection appointment system has encountered persistent issues. Patients attempting to book appointments have found that the website indicates there are no available slots. This inconvenience has led the IWK to recommend that patients seek alternative locations for their blood work when possible.
Urgent Cases and Alternate Booking Options
The hospital recognizes that some blood work is urgent and may need to be conducted at the IWK. In such cases where online appointments are unavailable, the IWK advises patients to contact their urgent booking line directly at 902-497-1764.
Feedback from Healthcare Professionals
Healthcare workers have expressed frustrations related to OPOR’s implementation. Both Doctors Nova Scotia and the Nova Scotia Nurses’ Union have highlighted concerns about the system, particularly regarding the lack of sufficient training provided to nurses prior to the launch.
- Janet Hazelton, president of the nurses’ union, noted that nurses found the new system cumbersome.
- Tasks taking five minutes now require up to thirty minutes, significantly slowing down patient admission processes.
Looking Ahead
The IWK is actively monitoring the situation and expects improvements in the online booking system in the upcoming weeks. The hospital has acknowledged the inconvenience this situation poses for patients and their families, urging them to remain patient as these challenges are addressed.
Overall, while the transition to the One Patient One Record system is intended to enhance the efficiency of the healthcare system, initial implementation struggles have created obstacles for both patients and healthcare providers within the IWK Health Centre.
