Frequently Asked Questions

What is the outreach implementation model?

Although this model of care varies across implementers, it is often referred to as “street nursing”. The intention is offering non-emergency targeted health services to reduce health inequities and promote overall health and well being. Services are offered within existing community agencies, individual encampments, or on mobile health clinic vehicles. Services are often offered in unique circumstances while maintaining nursing standards of practice.

 

What services are offered during outreach?

This varies between implementers and can include but is not limited to: testing and treatment for infectious diseases, counselling, provision of harm reduction supplies, dental care, and community service navigation and referrals.

 

Who provides these services?

Nurses, nurse practitioners, harm reduction workers, social workers, and additional allied staff.

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How is documentation completed?

Paper documentation is utilized to prevent connectivity issues with electronic medical records (EMR) systems. This documentation may then be uploaded or transcribed to the clients EMR dependent on individual agency policy. Data sharing is completed under informed verbal consent.

 

If a client requires treatment or testing, how do you ensure privacy and confidentiality?

Every effort is taken to maintain privacy and confidentiality in outreach interactions. Private spaces are often available by community partners, privacy screens are utilized, and consent is always provided in advance of proceeding with clinical services.

 

How are services provided efficiently without a physician on-site?

Staff provide services through a combination of professional judgement, clinical service policies and procedures, and medical directives. Nursing and other regulated health care professionals operate within their scope of practice and are accountable to their regulatory body.