Lung Sask has been informed by some SHA counterparts that there have been some issues with the Nellcor Analytics Tool (NAT) software with newer versions of Windows (specifically the recent Windows 11 upgrade). Medtronic Canada is aware and is waiting to hear back for further suggestions/guidance on how to make NAT functional and what steps they need to recommend and implement (see below).   

In the interim:

Workstations/computers that are utilizing the NAT software will be excluded from the Microsoft 11 update.  If your workstation was upgraded and you use the NAT for uploading and are experiencing issue please send in a Tech Ticket to eHealth (per SHA process). Ensure to explain the problem and the name of the software and oximeter. If having difficulty getting this fixed, please reach out to Jaimie Peters who will connect you with a direct contact from eHealth.

If needed, Lung Sask could assist in the download of results, on a short-term basis. Oximeters would need to be shipped to Lung Sask with details for download; the home health authority would be responsible for shipping costs..

Please contact Jaimie Peters, oxygentest@lungsask.ca and call 306-370-9012 for further assistance.

A few years ago, home oxygen extension request capability was granted to home oxygen testers. Several months ago, this will now be going back to the original policy where extension requests must be signed off by a physician (most often will be coordinated by the client's home oxygen company). 

As a tester, often you don't know when funding expires for your client.  If you do, and the testing is going to be delayed until near or after this expiration date, please make the home oxygen company aware.

Any questions, please reach out to:

Karol Douglas, Senior Policy Analyst; Drug Plan & Extended Benefits Branch

306-787-7242 -- Karol.Douglas@health.gov.sk.ca

You may see some new devices in the community being provided from home oxygen companies. The Inogen® Rove™ 4 is a new portable oxygen concentrator and the Oxy Home by Oxygo® is a new stationary concentrator. 

Healthcare professionals, in this episode of Let’s Talk Lungs, Inspired Breathing hosts Lori and Trent sit down with Dr. Brianne Philipenko, Respirologist in the Division of Respirology, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine at the University of Saskatchewan, to talk about what’s new in the treatment of severe asthma. Tune in to find out just how far we have come in the management of severe asthma.

Dr. Philipenko is a Saskatoon respirologist and an Assistant Professor in the Division of Respirology at the University of Saskatchewan.  She completed her medical training at the University of Saskatchewan, followed by her respirology training at the University of Calgary. She acquired an additional fellowship in severe asthma at the University of Calgary.  

Severe asthma remains her primary clinical and research area of interest.