April 28, 2014
RED DEER – Residents in central Alberta can now call a toll-free telephone number to access a wide range of continuing care services for themselves or their loved ones.
The Continuing Care Access Centre connects callers to a team of Alberta Health Services (AHS) registered nurses who can discuss the caller’s concerns, complete an initial assessment of the caller’s situation and refer the caller to the appropriate community service(s), such as home care, supportive living, long-term care and even non-continuing care services.
The Continuing Care Access Centre can be reached at 1-855-371-4122 and is available weekdays from 8:15 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. and weekends from 8:15 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
“The Government of Alberta believes it’s important that we simplify the health system for Albertans, and this new service does just that,” says Dave Quest, Associate Minister, Seniors.
“By calling just one telephone number, families can receive trusted information and advice, and access a wide range of services for their loved ones.”
There are many home care services available to help people stay safe and independent in their homes but, with 33 home care offices spread throughout the Central Zone, some callers wanted a simpler system, says Pansy Angevine, AHS Central Zone Manager of Transitions, Specialty Programs and New Initiatives.
“The goal is to provide more consistent, timely and appropriate care, seven days a week,” she says. “Now residents in central Alberta don’t have to navigate through a series of possible places to call to ask questions and access services. If the registered nurse on the call determines that the senior doesn’t actually need home care, the nurse will still be able to provide information on other community services, like Meals On Wheels.”
The toll-free number will also help physicians and other health providers in the Central Zone to secure timely access to appropriate care for seniors.
Alberta Health Services is the provincial health authority responsible for planning and delivering health supports and services for more than four million adults and children living in Alberta. Its mission is to provide a patient-focused, quality health system that is accessible and sustainable for all Albertans.
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