Fraser Health brings IV therapy to long term care

SURREY – Saving long term care clients a visit to hospital, Fraser Health is now offering intravenous (IV) therapy in two owned and operated long term care homes in Port Moody and New Westminster. People in long term care commonly require this treatment for the administration of medications as well as a means of hydration, resulting in transfers to hospital that can last days and sometimes even weeks.

“Today’s announcement offers seniors in these two facilities with the ability to receive the care they need without having to leave their residence,” said Health Minister Terry Lake. “This reflects the ministry’s strategic focus on putting the patient at the centre of care and as well, is a great example of the work Fraser Health is doing across the region to reduce unnecessary hospital admissions and provide more care in the community.”

Fraser Health has partnered with the Fraser Northwest Division of Family Practice to offer the service to Eagle Ridge Manor and Queen’s Park Care Centre residents who would otherwise be admitted to hospital for IV therapy.

“We know that the longer a senior stays in a hospital bed, the more likely they are to suffer adverse effects to their health, making the provision of IV therapy in our long term care homes play an important role in a person’s recovery,” said president and CEO Michael Marchbank. “We have listened to our residents and know that whenever possible, they prefer to receive services where they live rather than making an unnecessary visit to hospital.” 

Now that Eagle Ridge Manor and Queen’s Park Care Centre have established the program, Fraser Health will work with local Divisions of Family Practice to identify additional owned and operated long term care homes in the region that could utilize in-house IV therapy services. 

"Bringing IV therapy home to long term care homes in our communities helps prevent unnecessary admission to hospital and is a great example of delivering services where they most benefit residents,” said Lisa Zetes-Zanatta, executive director, New Westminster Health Services, Palliative Care, and Centralized Home Health Services. “Our collaboration with the Fraser Northwest Division of Family Practice has been integral to identifying the need for this service and ensuring its timely implementation.”

Fraser Health’s partnership with the Fraser Northwest Division of Family Practice to bring IV therapy to Eagle Ridge Manor and Queen’s Park Care Centre is the first step toward offering the service to all individuals living in long term care when it is required. In addition, Fraser Health is developing plans to eventually provide IV therapy to people living in their own homes.