Spine Assessment and Treatment

Saskatchewan has implemented a spine pathway - new assessment and treatment processes for patients with low back pain. This pathway will improve the assessment of low back pain by family physicians and other health providers, so patients can quickly receive care that is appropriate for their condition. The pathway is expected to decrease wait times for specialist referrals, treatment and surgery.

In June 2011, the Regina Qu'Appelle and Saskatoon Regional Health Authorities opened Saskatchewan Spine Pathway Clinics in Regina and Saskatoon. Primary care providers can now refer patients who require additional assessment and suport to either clinic, using a physician referral form. At the Spine Pathway Clinics, a multi-disciplinary team of health providers will reassess patients and identify treatment options.