An interfacility transfer (IFT) may be required for various reasons, including specialized treatment, diagnostic procedures, or to be closer to the patient's home. IFTs can be non-emergent, such as moving a stable patient for a specific procedure, or emergent, involving critically ill or injured patients requiring specialized care. While they play a vital role in healthcare, they also carry potential risks. Transitions of care have a high risk for error so EMRs and Paramedics need to be prepared for potential adverse events such as equipment failure, medication errors, and changes in the patient’s clinical condition. Proper planning, communication with the sending and receiving facilities, and understanding of relevant scope of practice are crucial for ensuring a safe and effective transfer. 

• If this is an IFT of a patient with a behavioural emergency, please use:
  • CPG G03: Interfacility Transport of the Behaviourally Compromised Patient.
  • CPG G03.1 IFT of the Behaviourally Compromised Patient Supplemental Information
• If this is an IFT of a bariatric patient, follow guidance in:
  • BCEHS OPS 200.1 Transport of Bariatric Patients
• Confirm patient identity and obtain clinical handover report
  • BCEHS OPS 270.1 Clinical Handover Client Identifiers
• Ensure patient, caregivers, and family are treated with respect and dignity
  • A01: Clinical Approach
    • Determine if a family member can be accommodated during transport, based on space and clinical status. (Low risk patients only)
    • Involve the patient and patient's family in decision making process when possible.
    • Ensure all indigenous cultural safety guidelines and anti-racism mandates are followed
• Obtain handover report (see example A08.1 Appendix A).
• Special Authorised Medications and/or therapies outside of non-IFT scope of practice that are administered or performed during an IFT and in accordance with a patient's Individualized Transport Plan require consultation with a either a BCEHS Paramedic Advisor (Paramedic Specialist, CCP-A, ITT-A), or a Medical Practitioner Advisor (EPOS, BC Children’s and Women’s TA).
• Ensure thorough and appropriate documentation of all assessment findings and interventions.
• Comply with all controlled targeted substance (CTS) regulations and BCEHS policy when managing a patient with CTS Medications.
• When an IFT requires the assistance of a nurse escort, there is a shared responsibility of patient care. The EMR/Paramedic must remain with the patient and fully document all ongoing care performed using the BCEHS ePCR.