There are now two separate referral forms for Geriatric Specialty Services (GSS) and Community Health Services (CHS):
- A new, standalone GSS referral form is now used for all referrals to community-based GSS programs.
- An updated CHS referral form is now used for community referrers for all other CHS programs. The acute process for CHS remains the same.
Important – Regional Exception
While the GSS referral form is in use Island-wide, the current Comox/Campbell River referral form remains in use for CHS referrals in the Comox Valley and Campbell River. These areas will transition to the updated separate CHS form at a later date.
Background
At the request of Island Health executive leadership, a regional review of GSS was conducted from September 2022 to March 2023. The review identified the need for a dedicated GSS referral form to support clear, timely, and consistent access to services across the region.
Through a highly collaborative process:
- Seniors Health developed a GSS-specific referral form
- Community Access developed a separate CHS referral form, replacing multiple region-specific versions
What’s Changed?
- All GSS referrals, regardless of program or location, must now be submitted using the new GSS referral form.
- All other CHS referrals from the community must be submitted using the Island-wide CHS referral form, except for Comox Valley and Campbell River.
Where to Find the Forms
Both forms are available through: