More transportation methods to medical sites will help ease the financial burden and stress, says Premier

VANCOUVER (NEWS 1130) — Improved access to medical care in remote, rural, and Indigenous communities, to help stop the spread of COVID-19, was outlined Monday by the province.

This means addressing the existing problem of getting the right care in a culturally appropriate, timely, and effective manner, which is part of the new framework to improve support across B.C.

Premier John Horgan explained the framework acts as a bridge to bring immediate help to communities by improving medical transportation with planes, helicopters, and 55 new ambulances, six of which will be in the Northern Health region.

Horgan says COVID-19 is adding pressure to an already overburdened system where many people already faced challenges seeking the necessary care.

Travelling to urban centres is part of the reality in many communities in B.C., which Horgan says comes at a cost for people who might need to travel for hours.

“Hospitals, sometimes airline flights, buses, cars, gas, expenses, that adds to the stress of families who are already dealing with a health emergency,” he says.

Horgan adds Indigenous peoples can’t always access culturally safe or appropriate care when they go to urban communities for health care.

“People in rural, remote, and Indigenous communities won’t have to worry about how they get there anymore and that will relieve some of the burdens emotionally, and some of the burdens financially,” he says, adding the province is committed to moving patients “at a moment’s notice.”

Providing a place for people to self-isolate near their families and in their communities is another part of the province’s plan, as well as improved testing for early detection of the virus.

Faster testing technology was prioritized for rural and remote areas. A new kit than can complete tests within 45 minutes is already being used in these communities and more should be arriving in a few weeks.

More virtual care will be brought in with a Virtual Doctor of the Day program that connects people in remote communities to a doctor or nurse practitioner through video.

“Indigenous communities have been harder hit in past pandemics and are vulnerable to COVID-19. Elders in particular, as critical knowledge keepers and holders of language, culture and teachings, must be protected,” says Scott Fraser, Minister of Indigenous Relations and Reconciliation. “Having plans and supports tailored to the unique circumstances and challenges in remote Indigenous communities will support these communities in caring for their residents.”

The province partnered with the First Nations Health Authority, Northern Health and Provincial Health Services Authority to create this framework.