eReferral CoP Session #7

On February 12, 2026, the eReferral Community of Practice (CoP) came together to discuss the nuances of eReferral Program Design. Below highlights key learnings from the group’s discussion.

Program Design – Provincial Nuances

Program design approaches vary across jurisdictions, reflecting differences in maturity, governance structures, digital infrastructure, and implementation strategy.

• Alberta shared a two-decade evolution from specialty-based central triage to a formal provincial program, emphasizing standardized, system-agnostic forms, structured data capture, and integration with provincial EHR and EMRs.
• Ontario outlined a high-volume, provincially supported model, transitioning from Amplify Care to Ontario Health, with dual-network operations through 2027/28 to preserve continuity and interoperability.
• New Brunswick described an early-stage redesign informed by pilot lessons, prioritizing Medical Imaging as an entry point and structuring the program across seven operational pillars, with early emphasis on governance clarity and resource planning.
• Nova Scotia presented a rapid 2023 provincial rollout using a central intake model for Surgical and Medical Imaging referrals, achieving broad clinician onboarding and aligning with broader CIS transformation.

Insights

• Change management and clinician co-design were identified as core infrastructure — not optional add-ons — for successful adoption.
• Readiness assessments and tailored deployment supports help address variability in clinic digital maturity and workflow integration.
• Early investment in governance structures and resource planning reduces downstream operational gaps and supports smoother rollout.
• Cross-provincial collaboration and knowledge sharing accelerate learning and reduce duplication of effort in emerging areas.

Questions?

Have questions? Complete this submission form and a member of the eReferral CoP will respond as soon as possible. Note: Some questions may require discussion and will be presented at a future quarterly eReferral CoP meeting.  

If you are just looking to stay informed on the eReferral CoP meeting topic, an update will be available following each quarterly session.