WINNIPEG- It took months, but the Winnipeg Regional Health Authority and local taxi companies have finally agreed how to toughen up emergency room pick up and drop off procedures. The plan follows two two fatal incidents last year.
Every patient entering the ER will now have a checklist to make sure all protocols are followed, and in some cases taxi drivers would also be required to go into the emergency room before taking the patient home. Cab drivers would also be responsible to walk vulnerable patients to their doors.
“If you were to talk to many of the drivers they would say that what we’re talking about is something they already do,” said Arlene Wilgosh of the Winnipeg Regional Health Authority. “It’s just to more formalize that.”
There was talk cab drivers would be hesitant to continue picking up patients if stricter measures were added.
Concerns of lost wages did not sit well with drivers who only make minimum wage and can’t afford to waste precious time. But under the new plan cabbies would be able to turn on the meter as soon as they arrive at the hospital.
Officials clarify cab drivers will not be expected to be an alternative to health care workers. If there’s an emergency with the passenger, they’re still expected to call 911.
The policy comes into effect May 1st.
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