On Tuesday, March 7, 2023 at Forbes Hall Islanders gathered to meet Nurse Practitioner Erin VanWieren, Social Worker Marcela Mrnka, and Community Paramedic Vinh Pham. A detailed description of the presentation is attached but to be brief....
FAQs
1. What does a nurse practitioner do?
Nurse Practitioners are primary care providers who work independently. They diagnose, order tests, prescribe medicines and refer to specialists.
2. When will Erin VanWieren start?
Erin expects to start seeing patients next Tuesday, March 14th. Her appointments will begin with the first 20 from the top of the waiting list of people who are not currently attached to a primary care provider and registered with HealthConnect as a starting point; these patients will be contacted soon. Visits will be in-person on Tuesdays and virtually on Thursdays. If you are not sure you are registered, please call 811 and the nurse can confirm your registration.
3. Can I see Erin if I already have a primary care provider?
Erin’s first task is to see those patients who have no primary care provider; once these patients have been seen she will then reassess. It is a work in progress.
4. What if I have an urgent health complaint?
Erin has ensured there will be same day appointments for those with urgent health issues. She will see any patients in this situation even if they have a primary care provider off island.
Remember to call 911 for emergencies!
5. How do I make an appointment to see Erin?
A phone number will be communicated once it is available.
6. Who else works with Erin?
Marcela Mrnka, Registered Social worker works with Erin to assist people who require access to the many other agencies that provide care. This includes mental health care, living situation assistance etc. Marcela will not have a set schedule with Erin but is available to help when needed. Vinh Pham, Community Paramedic, will assist Erin and other Primary Care Providers’ clients with in-home care, in-home health care monitoring and use of the equipment. Vinh Pham continues with his Vitals Monitoring and providing clinics to the Thetis Island Community.
7. Who loans mobility aids etc.?
The HELP (Health Equipment Loan Program) is now back at Forbes Hall. Please contact David Reay for any equipment you might need: crutches, walkers, etc.
For a more detailed summary of Tuesday, March 7th’s Health Care Meet & Greet, please view here: Meet & Greet Summary
Forbes Hall Health Services Group
