| MPP Arnott Announces Telehealth Service for Waterloo-Wellington
Residents who live in the 519 telephone area code can now access around-the-clock health advice by dialing 1-866-797-0000, says Waterloo-Wellington MPP Ted Arnott.
The toll free call will put residents in touch with experienced Registered Nurses who will answer questions about health concerns and assess symptoms to help determine whether the person calling should head directly to the emergency room, schedule an appointment with their doctor or look after themselves at home. Nurses will also be able to link calls to 911 for emergency situations.
“Former Health Minister Elizabeth Witmer had the foresight to initiate this service in Ontario. Along with the free flu shot it was brought forward as a way to enhance access to health care while streamlining the system,” said Mr. Arnott who serves on the Cabinet Policy Committee for Health and Social Services.
“Both programs can effectively reduce unnecessary visits to hospitals that tie up precious resources, while providing more health services that are innovative and easily available,” he added.
The program, called Telehealth was launched last February in Ontario's 416 and 905 area codes and is now expanded throughout the province.
Current Health Minister Tony Clement was in London on December 7, 2001 to launch the expansion of Telehealth to the 613 (eastern Ontario) and 519 area codes.
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