October 24, 2024
“We’re all excited because local patients will be able to be seen quickly and can avoid those long waits and needing to drive long distances to be seen by a neurologist,” says Dr. James Scozzafava. Photo by Chelsea Blair .
Story & photo by Chelsea Blair
STONY PLAIN — A new neurology clinic at WestView Health Centre is helping more patients living in rural areas get the care they need faster in their community.
The monthly clinic, led by neurologist Dr. James Scozzafava, opened to patients in July and will eventually move to a weekly schedule.
“We’re focused on treating patients with acute neurological conditions, or new diagnoses,” says Scozzafava. “If a patient has concerning symptoms such as sudden unexplained weakness in an arm, or facial numbness, their family doctor will likely provide a referral to a neurologist.” The new clinic has dramatically reduced wait times to one to three months for area patients.
“If a patient has to wait 12 to 18 months or longer for an appointment, they’ve lost a lot of time in regard to the investigation,” Scozzafava adds.
“We’re all excited because local patients will be able to be seen quickly and can avoid those long waits and needing to drive long distances to be seen by a neurologist.”
WestView makes an ideal location for a neurology clinic because the site has space and clerical support already available, with no additional equipment or staff required. The neurology clinic operates out of an existing shared clinic space that also offers clinics for casts, geriatric assessment, pediatric asthma and general pediatric assessments.
Patients who need to see a neurologist can now ask their doctor to refer them to WestView Health Centre.
“The addition of the neurology clinic to WestView Health Centre is fantastic news for our community,” says Searle Turton, MLA for Spruce Grove-Stony Plain and Minister of Children and Family Services.
“We want all Albertans to be able to receive the care they need where they need it and when they need it. This clinic is a great example of the dedication of health care professionals and the innovative work being done to improve access to healthcare to all, especially those in rural communities.”
