Those living in Yorkton can now access heart health services a lot closer to home. On Monday, the province announced the launch of the Heart Function Clinic, operated by the Saskatchewan Health Authority (SHA). The province says the clinic provides extensive outpatient services for people dealing with heart failure and other complex cardiac conditions. Its location will allow patients in Yorkton and east-central Saskatchewan to receive specialized care closer to home, cutting down the need to travel. “By connecting patients with expert cardiac care in their own community, we are improving access by ensuring the right care is available in the right place, at the right time,” said Health Minister Jeremy Cockrill in a news release. Heart failure is among the leading causes of hospitalization for older adults and requires ongoing monitoring and care. Patients can better manage their condition and improve their quality of life with early intervention and specialized support. Improved care can also reduce hospital admissions. “Living with heart failure can be complex, and patients often require support from multiple health care providers,” said Brenda Schwan, SHA’s vice president of Integrated Rural Health. The clinic is staffed by family physicians, a registered nurse, a pharmacist and an administrative assistant. Patients can access services through referrals from physicians, nurse practitioners and other health-care providers. Appointments are offered twice a month while coordination and follow-up support is available Monday-Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.
