The first line access counter will be reviewed from December

2023-10-23 19:36:13

The front line access window (GAP), which allows Quebecers without a family doctor to obtain health services, will be reviewed in December with, among other things, extended opening hours.

Published yesterday at 3:36 p.m.

“I am excessively concerned about the coordination and the speed with which we take care of a patient,” declared the Minister of Health, Christian Dubé, during a press scrum Monday afternoon at the 811 center.

To improve access to front-line services, Minister Dubé announced the appointment of the former CEO of the CIUSSS de la Capitale-Nationale Michel Delamarre as “services coordinator”. From December, Mr. Delamarre’s mandate will include improving the effectiveness of the GAP, which allows people without a family doctor to obtain a medical appointment or a health service.

Ultimately, patients in all regions will have the opportunity to discuss several health concerns with the GAP nurse. Currently, only one health problem can be addressed during the medical consultation.

Patients may also be referred to new professionals such as dentists, optometrists and physiotherapists.

Phone callback appreciated

To avoid people having to wait on the line, telephone callbacks will be introduced. “We have started doing it in certain places and people appreciate it,” declared Minister Dubé. He thus wishes to avoid people waiting “30, 40 or 50 minutes on the phone at GAP”. This GAP nicknamed 2.0 will also have extended opening hours.

“The current and future improvements will make it possible to perpetuate a mechanism that facilitates access to services and a better response by the right professional at the right time,” declared Mr. Delamarre.

The digital GAP will also be reviewed and will allow access to one’s health record and to the right health professional more quickly, maintains Mr. Delamarre.

GAP can be reached by dialing 811 and selecting option 3.

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