Researchers from the University of Alberta have recently published a review article on reducing the wait for surgical consultation. Its
findings support the implementation of central access and intake, as well as standardized referral forms, and patient choice – all features of the new Alberta
FAST (Facilitated Access to Specialized Treatment) program.
FAST, which will manage non-urgent referrals, has already launched in
North Zone (Urology and Orthopedics) and
South Zone (Urology), and will launch in
Central Zone (Urology, Orthopedics, Cataracts) on Aug. 29.
Referring providers are asked to send their referral letters to FAST using their zone’s new toll-free fax number (see here for
North,
Central and
South Zone numbers). Later this fall, provincially standardized referral forms for each participating specialty will be integrated into the major community EMR systems.
FAST offices in Edmonton and Calgary Zones will be launching in October.
Fourteen specialties are in queue to join FAST this summer through 2024.
