Rapid Access
Respiratory Clinic
What is the Rapid Access Respiratory Clinic (RARC)?
A multidisciplinary clinic, including Respirology, Respiratory Therapy and Nursing support.
We provide expedited assessments to diagnose and optimize management for people with high-risk COPD and Asthma.
Our aim is to assess new consultations within 4-6 weeks after referral.
We are a one stop shop for testing, treating and supporting high risk COPD and asthma patients!
Our goal is to reduce wait times for high risk patients from several months to less than 6 weeks!
How Can RARC Help My Breathing Issues?
COPD and Asthma are chronic respiratory diseases, which are often underdiagnosed and undertreated in the community.
People who have recently had an exacerbation (flare-up) requiring hospital or outpatient assessment are at high risk for repeat exacerbations, hospitalization, and/or decline in lung function.
RARC aims to assess these high-risk patients as soon as possible, in order to confirm the appropriate diagnosis and provide personalized treatment plans.
Timely specialist assessment can help prevent exacerbations, improve daily respiratory symptoms and enhance quality of life.
Who Can Be Seen In This Clinic?
- People 18 years of age with confirmed or suspected diagnosis of COPD or Asthma
- Not currently followed by a Respirologist
- AND at least one of the following within the past 12 months…
- Outpatient respiratory exacerbation
- ER visit due to COPD and/or Asthma
- Hospital admission due to COPD and/or Asthma
*Referral from a family physician or specialist will be required.
How Should I Prepare For My Appointment?
You will be contacted directly to book your appointment
Please bring the following to your appointment:
- Valid Health Card
- Updated medication list (or the actual medications if you have them, including all inhalers)
- Home oxygen (if you use it normally)
- Feel free to bring to family member or support person to your appointment
- Your appointment will likely involve a short breathing test and a walk test
- Please wear comfortable clothing, walking shoes and walking aid (if required)
What Can I Expect During My Appointment?
- Consultation with the Respirologist
- Spirometry (breathing test) and a walk test if required
- Respiratory education with a Respiratory Therapist
What Happens After My Appointment?
- A full report is sent to your family doctor and referring doctor
- You may be sent for further testing (e.g. bloodwork, chest x-rays, CT chest)
- A follow up appointment will be booked
Our office is inside The Village at Canadore College,
located at 100 College Drive, North Bay, Ontario.
Are You A Medical Professional Looking To Refer A Patient?
Please download and fill out the PDF below, then, fax the completed form to 705-479-5100
More Information About COPD and Asthma
Canadian Lung Association www.lung.ca
Lung Health Foundation www.lunghealth.ca
Have Questions?
Please feel free to give us a call during office hours.
Office Hours: Monday though Thursday,
from 9am to 4pm and Friday’s 9am to 12pm.
Phone: 705-586-2080
Fax: 705-479-5100