2023 marks key milestones for surgery and diagnostic imaging access

2023 has marked important changes to how Nova Scotians access surgical and Diagnostic Imaging (DI) services.

Nova Scotia launched electronic referrals (eReferrals) for surgery this Spring and expanded the eReferrals tool this fall to allow electronic referrals for magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and ultrasounds.

So far more than 12,000 surgical referrals, 1,200 MRI referrals and 250 ultrasound referrals have been sent in the tool.

eReferrals helps to better manage and coordinate referrals to these services, allowing referrals to new surgery central intake teams and provincial diagnostic imaging queues, as well as specific providers or service locations.

It also improves communication with patients and providers, helps prevent lost, incomplete, and misdirected referrals and more.

Patients who provide an email address with their referral receive automatic notifications, including a confirmation that their referral was received and information on anticipated wait times and appointments as they are added. 

For the first time, Nova Scotia Health and IWK Health have visibility into the number of referrals being sent and their status and can follow-up to keep referrals flowing through the system.

Work is continuing to support primary care providers, surgeons, and Diagnostic Imaging teams to join and use the tool.  

Other services and providers are also expected to be added over time.

User testimonials:

Dr. Ahmed Jad, General and Bariatric Surgeon, Colchester East Hants Health Centre, Truro

Dr. Samson Ezomo, Primary Physician, Scotia Square Medical, Halifax

Lynda Vidito, MRI Team Lead, Technologist, Valley Regional Hospital, Kentville 

Learn more: 

Surgery intake referral officer take pride in connecting patients and providers