Health Links–Info Santé is a telephone service that provides health status assessments and information on health resources. The service is available to Manitobans 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Callers can obtain services in French or English. Callers sometimes have to wait before speaking to a specialized registered nurse. Wait times depend on the number of calls, time of day and whether there is an emergency in the province. The St. Boniface Health Centre’s team offers French language services and, if necessary, the personnel have access to an interpretation service that can handle more than 110 languages. To use the interpretation service, just ask a member of the nursing staff with whom you can make arrangements.
When you call, we begin by determining whether you are in a crisis situation and whether to call 911. The nurse uses the information database and the Health Links-Info Santé health resources to triage your symptoms following approved medical protocols. The purpose of your health assessment is to refer you to the most appropriate level of care or at least provide you with advice so that you can look after yourself.
However, the nursing staff cannot make diagnoses, order tests, prescribe medication or change a physician’s orders.
To assess and provide an effective response to your health needs, the Health Links-Info Santé nursing staff asks you for personal information: your name, address, phone number and date of birth. If you are calling on behalf of another person, we also ask you to provide this type of information about that person. Depending on the situation, we collect data on your medical history, allergies and medication. You should be aware that all personal information collected during your call is confidential and protected under the provisions of the Personal Health Information Act. You can also choose to remain anonymous on the phone.
- Health Links–Info Santé can provide the following services:
- help you determine the level of medical care that you need;
- refer you to the most appropriate health facility for your needs;
- tell you how to treat minor injuries at home;
- provide you with advice on disease and injury prevention;
- provide you with information on health issues (e.g.: West Nile virus).
In Winnipeg, call 204-788-8200. Outside Winnipeg, call toll-free at 1 888 315-9257.
Common Health Issues
