Hospital Transfers

Prince Edward Island’s network of hospitals and health facilities work together to ensure you receive the best possible care, when and where you need it.

Why would I be transferred to another hospital?

Planning for your care begins when you are admitted to hospital. Your health care team will develop a plan of care that is right for you. In some cases, this may include a transfer to another Island hospital where you will continue to receive the care you need. View the Patient Care Journey [PDF | 371 KB].

If you have completed the acute phase of your care and no longer require the range of services offered at your current hospital, you may be transferred to another hospital where your existing care needs will continue to be met. If a transfer may be required as part of your care plan, you and your family will be advised by a member of your health care team if a transfer is part of their care plan.

Will the hospital I am transferred to know my patient history?

When your health care team decides that you will be transferred to another hospital, they will consult with the receiving health care team to ensure the hospital knows your patient history and is ready to provide you with the best possible care.

Will I have to pay the ambulance transfer fee?

Island residents with a valid PEI Health Card who are transferred to another hospital will not be required to pay the ambulance transfer fee. Details of your transfer will be communicated in advance.

If I am in hospital waiting for long-term care, can I choose the facility I will be transferred to?

No, not while you are waiting in hospital. You will be offered the first available long-term care bed that meets your health care needs. Sometimes this will mean accepting a bed that is not your first choice and may be outside of your home community. If you are placed in a facility that is not you or your family’s choice, your name will be placed in priority to be transferred to the area of your first choice, as soon as a bed becomes available.