Assessing the clinical and economic impact of Renfrew County’s COVID-19 Virtual Triage and Assessment Centre

Project ID: 2021-002/2022 0901 319 000
Type of Response: Research project
Knowledge User: Arnprior Regional Health
ICES Scientists: Lise Bjerre, Lesley Plumptre, Rick Glazier, Michael Green
Summary: As a response to Covid-19 pandemic, a Virtual Triage and Assessment Center (VTAC) was established in Renfrew County, Ontario. It provided a holistic assessment including testing for Covid-19 infection and assisted patients in accessing primary care and other health care resources available locally. The researchers aim to assess the impact of VTAC on emergency department use and hospitalization in the county, comparing it with the pre-pandemic rates. The evidence gathered from the study will suggest on the continuity of VTAC or similar services in the post-pandemic period in the county as well as in other underserved rural/remote counties across Ontario. It will also emphasize how such services can improve access to primary care and reduce emergency services use for non-urgent care.
Status: In progress