Process and findings informing the development of a provincial emergency medicine network

We describe the process undertaken to inform the development of the recently launched British Columbia (BC) Emergency Medicine Network (EM Network). Five methods were undertaken: (1) a scoping literature review, (2) a survey of BC emergency practitioners and EM residents, (3) key informant interviews, (4) focus groups in sites across BC, and (5) establishment of a brand identity. There were 208 survey respondents: 84% reported consulting Internet resources once or more per emergency department shift; however, 26% reported feeling neutral, somewhat unsatisfied, or very unsatisfied with searching for information on the Internet to support their practice. Enthusiasm was expressed for envisioned EM Network resources, and the key informant interviews and focus group results helped identify and refine key desired components of the EM Network. In describing this, we provide guidance and lessons learned for health leaders and others who aspire to establish similar clinical networks, whether in EM or other medical disciplines.