Family physicians in our community are committed to providing the best possible care for seniors living in residential facilities. Two of the main goals for our Long-Term Care program (formerly called Residential Care Initiative) are to reduce the number of trips residents make to the emergency room and to have fewer residents taking more than nine medications, as both these situations can negatively impact our senior patients.

The Division has 13 doctors providing enhanced clinical care and 24-hour availability to eleven public and three private residential facilities in White Rock-South Surrey. By enabling round-the-clock patient care, doctors in long-term care facilities are better able to support patients where they live and reduce the need to visit the emergency room. 

We are also actively working to reduce the number of medications seniors take. As we age, many people visit more than one medical professional who may prescribe long-term medication. Over time, these medications may no longer be needed or they may negatively interact with another medicine the patient is taking. Our goal is for patients to enjoy life with as few medications, and as few side effects, as possible.

The Long-Term Care ​Program was launched in 2011 and is operated by the Division in partnership with the Fraser Health Authority and the Family Practice Services Committee. Based on the program’s success to date, the Ministry of Health has extended funding so it can continue province-wide.

For more information, please contact us at info@wrssdivision.ca