Province expands hospital capacity in preparation for respiratory virus season

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“We’ve expanded acute care capacity to the highest level in Alberta’s history, and we’re taking further steps to prepare our hospitals for respiratory virus season,” said Premier Danielle Smith in a media release. “We can’t prevent every seasonal surge, but we can make sure our hospitals have the space, resources and flexibility to respond so Albertans can get the care they need.”

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“We’ve been working closely with our health partners to better prepare our hospitals for respiratory virus season,” said Adriana LaGrange, Minister of Hospital and Surgical Health Services. “This action plan brings together a number of practical steps, including increased capacity and new clinical triage teams, that will make a real difference for patients and our health care teams.”

Meanwhile, the newly launched Triage Liaison Physician program will bring physicians directly into busy emergency department waiting areas, providing an earlier point of contact for patients.

Hospitals across Alberta are also introducing automated daily staffing reports to give them a clearer picture of where staff are available and where more support is needed.

Throughout respiratory virus season, ACA will continue monitoring hospital capacity and patient flow to identify emerging pressures across the province. Established triggers will guide additional measures as needed, ensuring hospitals are prepared to respond to increased demand and continue providing care to Albertans.

Quick facts

• Influenza immunization is available free of charge to all Albertans six months of age and older, while publicly funded COVID-19 immunizations are available to eligible Albertans.
• RSV immunization is available free of charge year-round for eligible seniors, older adults in continuing care and supportive living, and eligible First Nations, Métis and Inuit Albertans.
• As of Oct. 1, RSV immunization eligibility expanded to vulnerable adults aged 18 to 69 with certain serious medical conditions, including transplant recipients, people receiving dialysis and those requiring chronic oxygen therapy.
• RSV immunization for eligible adults is available through public health clinics and participating pharmacies.
• Publicly funded RSV protection is also available to all infants born in hospital from November through April, with families offered protection shortly after birth, before leaving hospital.
• Albertans can book immunizations at bookvaccine.alberta.ca, through Health Link at 811 or at their local pharmacy.