A Design Iteration Towards a Multi-Modal Software System for Improving Home Care Experiences in Saskatchewan

The COVID-19 pandemic has revealed significant challenges in the structure, delivery, and financing of long-term care (LTC) in Canada. The high number of COVID-19-related deaths among LTC residents, who are primarily older adults with multiple underlying health conditions, has raised concerns about the ability of LTC sites to effectively respond to the crisis. Consequently, in Saskatchewan, where outbreaks have occurred, there is a growing interest in expanding home care (HC) services and making investments in this area. To establish HC as a viable option for helping to address the LTC crisis, it is crucial to assess the current state of people, processes, and technologies involved in HC operations. This assessment aims to identify areas for improvement and enhance the provision of HC at various levels. This paper examines the enhancements needed for current HC processes and technologies while exploring the potential benefits of utilizing an open-data and open-source software solution to improve HC operations in Saskatchewan. Additionally, future research and development directions are discussed.