A new process to centralize urology referrals, as well as non-urgent orthopaedics and spine referrals, will go live in the Calgary Zone next week.
Effective Tuesday, October 11, referrals should be sent to 1-833-627-7023. Please note that the new process does not include oncology or paediatric orthopaedic referrals.
Urology and orthopaedics & spine access pathways posted on specialistlink.ca have been updated to reflect the change. Please note the following:
There are no changes to referral forms or letters at this time
A 12-week grace period is in place for this change. If referrals are sent directly to the surgeon, specialist or the old central access number after October 11, a note will be faxed back indicating it has been forwarded for review
Specify if you want the next available provider with the shortest wait list, or a specific provider, clinic or site
Please state if you are requesting an out-of-Zone referral and include the name of a preferred provider or clinic
The new process was developed as part of the Alberta Facilitated Access to Specialized Treatment (FAST) program, which is part of the Alberta Surgical Initiative (ASI).