Created amidst the pandemic to make COVID-19 vaccine booking easier, the Saskatchewan Health Authority launched its Patient Booking System. 

In its most recent update, the focus has shifted to other uses as vaccine mandates begin to lift globally. As of March 29, folks can now book laboratory services in Swift Current through the online system. 

Minister of Rural and Remote Health, Everett Hindley, said the expansion is part of modernizing the healthcare system and giving patients more flexibility. 

“We want to try and make sure that there's some predictability for patients that might be traveling from other communities into Swift Current,” he added. "As the world adapts and changes and people are shifting how they do things, this is a new way when it comes to healthcare to be able to deliver that service.” 

The update doesn’t exclusively make things easier on patients or folks needing lab work done, however. 

Hindley said they hope the system benefits healthcare workers as well. 

“In terms of providing the ability to free up some of their time, I think,” he said. "And providing another way to help create efficiencies when it comes to scheduling, ensuring safe patient flow, and reducing wait times for patients as well. That's the goal of the new online booking system and we’re pleased to see it being launched in a number of locations, including here in our cities of Swift Current.” 

The site is available 24 hours for scheduling Lab/ECG appointments, including blood/urine collections, ECGs, a combination of the two, and Glucose Tolerance Tests.

To book appointments online, folks need a provincial health card and either a cell phone number or a valid email address. Folks can also speak with a booking agent over the phone via the Call Centre, which can be accessed 8:45 a.m. to 4:45 p.m., seven days per week by calling 1-833-727-5829.