Stay up to date with the latest news
&
events from the NSHN (Blind River, Thessalon and Richards Landing - Matthews Memorial Sites)
NSHN Acute Care COVID-19 Outbreak
Blind River, ON: As part of ongoing, proactive surveillance and case finding, COVID-19 has been confirmed on the Acute Care Unit of the North Shore Health Network (NSHN) located in Blind River. As a result, Algoma Public Health (APH) is declaring an outbreak.
NSHN is working closely with APH to take actions to keep workers, providers, patients and visitors safe including monitoring all patients for new symptoms, closing the unit to new admissions, and implementing visiting restrictions.
Effective immediately, the following visiting restrictions for the Acute Care Unit will be in place:
• There will be no general visiting during the outbreak.
• Visiting is limited to Essential Caregivers / Essential Visitors only. Limited to two (2) visitors per day. Length of visits is not restricted unless exceptional circumstances apply.
• End-of-life patients (including end-of-life COVID-positive patients) will have a visiting plan developed with the Nursing Team.
• Visitors are required to wear a medical mask at all times, and to perform hand hygiene upon entry and exit.
Entrance to the Blind River Site.
All visitors should consider their personal health in determining whether visiting is appropriate. Visitors exhibiting signs of influenza-like illness (fever, cough, difficulty breathing, runny nose, sneezing, etc.) will be asked not to visit.
The North Shore Health Network will continue to provide updates on the status of the outbreak. Thank you for your understanding and for treating our workers with kindness and respect.
For more information on COVID-19 and what to do if you have symptoms, please visit Algoma Public Health’s website here: https://www.algomapublichealth.com/disease-and-illness/infectious-diseases/covid-19/
North Shore Health Network & Nogdawindamin Family and Community Services Sign Protocol Agreement
NSHN President & CEO Tim Vine presents a gift to Karen Kennedy, Senior Director of Services, Nogdawindamin Family and Community Services, in honour of signing the protocol agreement between the two organizations.
Blind River, ON – In an event held at the North Shore Health Network (NSHN) Blind River Site on April 9, 2024, NSHN and Nogdawindamin Family & Community Services (Nogdawindamin) officially signed a protocol agreement, sealing their commitment to collaborative and responsible partnerships in the greater safety and protection of Anishnawbek children.
NSHN and Nogdawindamin will collaborate to ensure that all children are safe and receive appropriate, consistent services, respecting their families’ and their communities’ inherent authority to care for their children based on unity, traditions, values, beliefs and customs.
Nogdawindamin provides prevention and child welfare services to members of the 7 First Nation communities within NSHN’s catchment area, including residents who reside on and off reserves within the Algoma and Sudbury districts. The seven First Nations include: Batchewana First Nation, Garden River First Nation, Thessalon First Nation, Mississauga First Nation, Serpent River First Nation, Sagamok Anishnawbek and Atikameksheng Anishnawbeck.
This collaboration aims to improve cooperation, coordination and communication among all systems and professionals to ensure a consistent, effective and integrated response to child abuse and neglect grounded in Anishnawbek values.
“This agreement formalizes the existing relationship NSHN has had for many years with Nogdawindamin. It is an important opportunity to recommit ourselves to serving children and families across the North Shore in a culturally appropriate way, with the support of the team at Nogdawindamin” stated Tim Vine, NSHN President and CEO. “In addition to agreements with other Indigenous service providers, this protocol agreement, and the continued and strengthening relation it represents, helps move NSHN toward creating a culturally safe space for Indigenous patients, residents, and clients.”
"Our collaboration with North Shore Health Network marks a significant step towards ensuring the safety and protection of Anishnawbek children. By working together with NSHN, we are dedicated to providing culturally appropriate services that respect the inherent authority of families and communities to care for their children based on unity, traditions, values, beliefs, and customs. This partnership aims to enhance cooperation, coordination, and communication to offer a consistent and integrated response rooted in Anishnawbek values” stated Karen Kennedy, Senior Director of Services, Nogdawindamin Family and Community Services.
NSHN Expanding Medical Imaging Services at Thessalon & Richards Landing – Matthews Sites
With the help of Tatjana Johnston, the very first Ultrasound patient at the Thessalon Site, Sonographer Melanie Grimard test runs the equipment ahead of launching the new service on April 2, 2024.
The North Shore Health Network Medical Imaging department is excited to announce that services are expanding at the Thessalon and Richards Landing – Matthews sites in April.
Effective Tuesday April 2, 2024 ultrasound services will be available at the Thessalon Site once a week. Ultrasound appointments at the Thessalon Site will be booked between 9:00 am – 5:00 pm, one day per week. All requisitions should be sent to the Blind River Site by providers for triaging – including any specialists or non-local providers. At this time, there are some ultrasound types that are unable to be completed in Thessalon, these appointments will remain in Blind River. Instructions will be provided to patients in advance of their appointment.
Effective April 2, 2024 there will be an increase in available appointments for X-Ray at the Richards Landing-Matthews Site to 3 days per week. Appointments will now be available on Mondays 9am – 1 pm, Wednesdays 1pm – 5pm, and Fridays 9am – 1pm. The schedule will be updated for weeks with Statutory holidays.
“We are so pleased to support more communities along the western part of our catchment area by offering more diagnostic services closer to home.” – Tim Vine, NSHN President & CEO
NSHN Celebrates March for Meals with Communities Across Ontario
Blind River, ON - The North Shore Health Network (NSHN) Community Support Services is pleased to participate in the 22nd annual #MarchforMeals – a month-long campaign celebration to increase awareness and community engagement with local Meals on Wheels providers across Ontario.
“This March we join in recognizing the dedication of volunteers in our community who tirelessly deliver meals, helping to address food insecurity and social isolation, enabling so many to remain healthy and independent at home.” Said Tim Vine, NSHN CEO.
The March for Meals campaign kicks off today with the assistance of Blind River Mayor Sally Hagman. NSHN will also join other Meals on Wheels Programs across Ontario during March for Meals Community Champions Week, from March 18 to 22, to raise awareness about the power of Meals on Wheels.
“Thank you to all 2024 Community Champions for stepping up to promote the importance of this program and to the dedicated volunteers who are vital in keeping the Meals on Wheels program running year-round” said Vine.
Meals on Wheels is a service that is entirely dependent on local volunteer delivery three days a week to promote wellness and independence and to improve the nutritional status of individuals in our community. In 2023, 12 volunteers delivered a total of 2,929 meals throughout the Blind River community.
If you are interested in learning more about becoming a Meals on Wheels volunteer or other volunteer opportunities offered through the NSHN Community Support Services – visit our website: www.nshn.care/volunteer
Want to learn more about the Meals on Wheels program? Contact Maiya Hallett, Community Support Services Manager, at 705-356-2265 ext. 2455.
Blind River Mayor Sally Hagman delivers a hot meal to Dan Williamson as NSHN kicks off participation in #MarchforMeals.
NSHN Clinical Assessment Centres & Oximetry Outreach Program Closure
NSHN Clinical Assessment Centre
After nearly 4 years in operation, the Clinical Assessment Centres – located in Blind River and Thessalon – and the Oximetry Outreach Program operated by the North Shore Health Network (NSHN) will be closing at the end of this month.
The last day for specimen collection at the Centres and intake to the Oximetry Program is Monday February 26 and both will officially close as of March 11, 2024.
Since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, the NSHN Assessment Centres and Oximetry Outreach Program have provided safe and timely access to COVID-19 testing and support through the patient’s healthcare journey after testing positive for COVID-19 or experiencing ongoing respiratory issues.
“I want to thank the Clinical Assessment Centre & Oximetry Outreach Program teams who have worked incredibly hard throughout the pandemic to relieve pressure on emergency departments and to help protect our communities” said Tim Vine, NSHN President & CEO. “It is important to note that COVID is still in our communities, and we urge anyone who feels unwell to continue taking precautions to help limit the spread of respiratory ailments.”
The closure decision comes as funding for the program has not been renewed.
As NSHN continues to work with community partners to prepare for the closure, additional information will be posted on our website: https://www.nshn.care/covid19
For more information on COVID-19 and what to do if you have symptoms, please visit Algoma Public Health’s website here: https://www.algomapublichealth.com/disease-and-illness/infectious-diseases/covid-19/
NSHN Foundation Development Officer Appointment
After a thorough selection process, Charlyn Breckenridge has been selected as the successful candidate for the position of Development Officer at the North Shore Health Network (NSHN) Foundation.
Charlyn is deeply passionate about making a positive impact within our communities, and is committed to working collaboratively in furthering the Foundation’s vision of ensuring appropriate healthcare is within reach. Her ongoing community volunteerism and positive community relationships along with her communication, project management research and data analysis skills will guide her growth and success in the role.
As the NSHN Foundation’s Development Officer, Charlyn will be focusing on collaboratively developing and executing a fundraising plan with a focus on major gifts, corporate sponsorship, endowments, and large-scale events and growing the overall community profile of the Foundation. The position will now report directly to the NSHN Chief Executive Officer, with a dotted-line reporting relationship to the NSHN Foundation Board.
Please join us in congratulating Charlyn and welcome her as she transitions into her new role on April 1, 2024.
Welcome to our new Vice President of Clinical Services and Chief Nursing Executive
Welcome to NSHN
Connie Gordon R.N, BScN, MPH(N)
Vice President of Clinical Services and Chief Nursing Executive (CNE)
Starting on January 8, 2024
The North Shore Health Network (NSHN) is pleased to welcome Connie Gordon R.N, BScN, MPH(N) as Vice President of Clinical Services and Chief Nursing Executive (CNE) after an extensive search, starting on January 8, 2024.
Connie is a dynamic collaborative leader with the right mix of skills and experience, with 15 years of senior health sector leadership. She is a highly developed executive nursing leader with demonstrated abilities in senior leadership across a broad range of sectors and portfolios (acute and long-term care, public health, mental health and addictions) and extensive experience and expertise in strategic and service planning, human resource and budget management, health policy development, and infection control.
“We are excited to welcome Connie to our team,” said Tim Vine, President and Chief Executive Officer at NSHN. “With her proven track record in a complex health care environment, she will be a great asset to our organization and the communities we serve.”
"I am immensely grateful for this leadership opportunity and very excited about the future of health care at NSHN" says Gordon. "I look forward to leading and working with our staff and management team to maintain the highest level of excellence in care for our patients and their families".
Thank you to Mary Ellen Luukkonen for her steady hand as interim VP/CNE over the last nearly two years, and for supporting the organization with Connie’s transition to NSHN.
Gordon previously served as the Chief Nursing Executive for St. Joseph’s Hospital Elliot Lake and Algoma Public Health, responsible for human resource planning, quality nursing and allied health practice, and enhancing nursing and allied health contributions to organizational effectiveness.
NSHN Foundation Receives $100,000 From Matthews Memorial Hospital Foundation
Richards Landing, ON – Last week, the Board of the Matthews Memorial Hospital Foundation presented the North Shore Health Network Foundation with a cheque for $100,000 in reserved funds for the Richards Landing - Matthews Site.
The MMH Foundation will be winding up as of December 31, 2023. Founded in February 2014 to raise money for the Richards Landing Site - the MMHF Board thanked everyone for the generous donations in support over the past 9 years. The funds passed along to the NSHN Foundation will continue to be utilized to improve health care services and programs provided by the North Shore Health Network at the Richards Landing - Matthews Site on St. Joseph Island.
“We are so blessed to be supported by great community members! Thanks to the MMHF for years of dedicated work and entrusting the North Shore Health Network Foundation with being custodians of these funds, to be used for the benefit of the North Shore Health Network Richards Landing Matthews Site.” – Tim Vine, President & CEO, NSHN.
NSHN Returns to Universal Masking
The North Shore Health Network (NSHN) has returned to universal masking across all sites – Blind River, Thessalon and Richards Landing-Matthews – as a result of increased activity of COVID-19 and other respiratory viruses in our area.
All health care workers and members of the public (patients, clients, essential caregivers and visitors) are reminded to wear a mask at all times unless one of the following applies:
· a valid mask exemption is declared;
· the mask is required to be removed for an emergency or medical purpose;
· while eating or drinking; or
· admitted patients in assigned rooms.
NSHN approved masks are available at all entrances.
Visitors and Essential Caregivers who are feeling unwell are asked to postpone visiting until they are no longer experiencing symptoms.
Feeling unwell? Book an appointment for testing at an NSHN Clinical Assessment Centre by visiting: www.nshnbooking.care or calling 705-356-2265 ext. 2578.
The North Shore Health Network has a zero-tolerance policy towards violence and harassment in the workplace. No worker should be subjected to violent, threatening and/or abusive behaviour. Any such behaviour may result in the loss of access to visiting or services. Thank you for treating our workers with respect.
Online Booking - Laboratory
NEW ONLINE BOOKING AVAILABLE! 📅
Starting November 13, 2023, we're making your life easier with our Online Booking system for blood work appointments. Now you can schedule your appointments conveniently from the comfort of your home or wherever you are!
👉 How to Book Online: If you have a blood work requisition from your provider, follow these steps:
1️⃣ Click the button above or visit our booking website www.nshnbooking.care/blood-testing to book online.
2️⃣ You can also call our dedicated Appointment Line at 1-705-356-2265 or toll-free at 1-888-425-0321 Ext. 2660.
3️⃣ Can't reach us right away? No problem! Leave a message, and a staff member will return your call within 2 business days.
CONVENIENCE AT YOUR FINGERTIPS!
🔹 Need to change or cancel your appointment? You can do that online too or leave a message on the appointment booking line.
ABOUT OUR LABORATORY DEPARTMENT
Our Outpatient Laboratory is here to serve you! We offer a range of essential services, including laboratory testing in biochemistry, hematology, and transfusion medicine, all conducted by licensed medical laboratory technologists.
Our dedicated team of nine employees provides round-the-clock coverage for emergencies. We also collaborate with other facilities and medical specialists, ensuring your health is in good hands.
A laboratory is a crucial part of any hospital, as accurate results play a significant role in patient care. At least 70% of a physician's treatment decisions are based on lab results. Our services benefit the entire community, including patients, physicians, nursing staff, and other health professionals.
Your well-being is our priority, and now, scheduling your blood work appointments has never been easier. Visit our booking website www.nshnbooking.care/blood-testing or call our dedicated Appointment Line today!
Blind River Site Emergency Department OPEN - June 2, 2023 *UPDATED*
Updated June 1/23:
The Emergency Department at the Blind River Site of the North Shore Health Network (NSHN) will remain open to the public on Friday June 2nd. The temporary closure of the site announced May 31st has been averted.
NSHN would like to thank the community for your continued patience and understanding as we work with our partners towards sustainable resources to serve your healthcare needs. For up to date information regarding please visit our website: www.nshn.care or via Facebook “North Shore Health Network.”
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The Emergency Department at the Blind River Site of the North Shore Health Network (NSHN) will be temporarily closing on the following dates due to physician shortages:
· From 8:00 am on Friday June 2, 2023 and reopening Saturday June 3, 2023 at 8:00 am.
The North Shore Health Network continues to investigate all possible options to provide safe access to care. Every effort will continue to be made and NSHN is committed to keeping the community informed regarding this situation.
Anyone requiring immediate medical attention should call 9-1-1. Ambulances will be re-routed to one of the following: NSHN Thessalon Site or St. Joseph’s General Hospital Elliot Lake.
The closest Emergency Departments to the Blind River Site are:
· Thessalon Site – North Shore Health Network – 135 Dawson St., Thessalon ON, P0R 1L0
· St. Joseph’s General Hospital Elliot Lake – 70 Spine Rd., Elliot Lake, ON, P5A 1X2
Access to services for non-emergent health advice or information is available by calling Health811 by calling 8-1-1. Toll free TTY line: 1-866-797-007. Or start a live chat with an advisor online at: https://healthconnectontario.health.gov.on.ca.
NSHN would like to thank the community for your continued patience and understanding during this time as we work with our partners towards sustainable resources to serve your healthcare needs. For further information please visit our website: www.nshn.care or via Facebook “North Shore Health Network.”
Thessalon Site Emergency Department Closure - May 31, 2023 **UPDATED
May 31, 2023 - UPDATED - NSHN has secured physician coverage and will re-open the Thessalon Site to full coverage at 8:00 pm today (May 31, 2023).
The Emergency Department at the Thessalon Site of the North Shore Health Network (NSHN) will be temporarily closing on the following dates due to physician shortages:
From 8:00 am on Wednesday May 31, 2023 and reopening Wednesday May 31, 2023 at 8:00 pm.
The North Shore Health Network continues to investigate all possible options to provide safe access to care. Every effort will continue to be made and NSHN is committed to keeping the community informed regarding this situation.
Anyone requiring immediate medical attention should call 9-1-1. Ambulances will be re-routed to one of the following: NSHN Blind River Site, NSHN Richards Landing-Matthews Site, or Sault Area Hospital.
The closest Emergency Departments to the Thessalon Site are:
· Blind River Site – North Shore Health Network – 525 Causley St., Blind River, ON
· Richards Landing Site – North Shore Health Network – 1180 Richards St., Richards Landing, ON
· Sault Area Hospital – 750 Great Northern Rd., Sault Ste. Marie, ON
Access to services for non-emergent health advice or information is available by calling Health811 by calling 8-1-1. Toll free TTY line: 1-866-797-007. Or start a live chat with an advisor online at: https://healthconnectontario.health.gov.on.ca.
NSHN would like to thank the community for your continued patience and understanding during this time as we work with our partners towards sustainable resources to serve your healthcare needs. For further information please visit our website: www.nshn.care or via Facebook “North Shore Health Network.”
Thessalon Site Emergency Department Closure - May 29, 2023
Thessalon, ON – The Emergency Department at the Thessalon Site of the North Shore Health Network (NSHN) will be temporarily closing on the following dates due to physician shortages:
· From 8:00 am on Monday May 29, 2023 and reopening Monday May 29, 2023 at 8:00 pm.
The North Shore Health Network continues to investigate all possible options to provide safe access to care. Every effort will continue to be made and NSHN is committed to keeping the community informed regarding this situation.
Anyone requiring immediate medical attention should call 9-1-1. Ambulances will be re-routed to one of the following: NSHN Blind River Site, NSHN Richards Landing-Matthews Site, or Sault Area Hospital.
The closest Emergency Departments to the Thessalon Site are:
· Blind River Site – North Shore Health Network – 525 Causley St., Blind River, ON
· Richards Landing Site – North Shore Health Network – 1180 Richards St., Richards Landing, ON
· Sault Area Hospital – 750 Great Northern Rd., Sault Ste. Marie, ON
Access to services for non-emergent health advice or information is available by calling Health811 by calling 8-1-1. Toll free TTY line: 1-866-797-007. Or start a live chat with an advisor online at: https://healthconnectontario.health.gov.on.ca.
NSHN would like to thank the community for your continued patience and understanding during this time as we work with our partners towards sustainable resources to serve your healthcare needs. For further information please visit our website: www.nshn.care or via Facebook “North Shore Health Network.”
Thessalon Site Emergency Department Closure - May 24 & 25, 2023
The Emergency Department at the Thessalon Site of the North Shore Health Network (NSHN) will be temporarily closing on the following dates due to physician shortages:
· From 8:00 am on Wednesday May 24, 2023 and reopening Friday May 26, 2023 at 8:00 am.
The North Shore Health Network has investigated all possible options to continue to provide safe access to care, however, the difficult decision has been made to announce the temporary Thessalon Site Emergency Department closure. Every effort will continue to be made and NSHN is committed to keeping the community informed regarding this situation.
Anyone requiring immediate medical attention should call 9-1-1. Ambulances will be re-routed to one of the following: NSHN Blind River Site, NSHN Richards Landing-Matthews Site, or Sault Area Hospital.
The closest Emergency Departments to the Thessalon Site are:
· Blind River Site – North Shore Health Network – 525 Causley St., Blind River, ON
· Richards Landing Site – North Shore Health Network – 1180 Richards St., Richards Landing, ON
· Sault Area Hospital – 750 Great Northern Rd., Sault Ste. Marie, ON
Access to services for non-emergent health advice or information is available by calling Health811 by calling 8-1-1. Toll free TTY line: 1-866-797-007. Or start a live chat with an advisor online at: https://healthconnectontario.health.gov.on.ca.
NSHN would like to thank the community for your continued patience and understanding during this time as we work with our partners towards sustainable resources to serve your healthcare needs. For further information please visit our website: www.nshn.care or via Facebook “North Shore Health Network.”
Launch Day: GEM5000 Point-of-Care Testing
Today NSHN is celebrating the successful implementation of our GEM5000 point-of-care testing machines at all 3 sites - Blind River, Thessalon and Richards Landing - Matthews.
The GEM5000 is used to test bloodwork from the Emergency Department on site. Results are available in minutes! These results aid in the clinical decision making for patients without the time delay of transporting samples to another facility. This particular instrument tests electrolytes (i.e. sodium, potassium, etc.) and blood gases.
The GEM5000 follows the successful launch of another point-of-care testing device last year - the Alere Triage Meter - which tests for heart attacks and blood clots in the lungs.
A large team was involved in this accomplishment. Thank you to Laboratory Staff, Providers, IT, Nursing Staff, NSHN's Laboratory Director and the Clinical Quality, Education & Communication Administrative Lead for your support on this project.
Job well done!
Thessalon Site (left to right): Brooke Rutledge, Dr. Garniss, Nicole Senecal and Hilary Glawson
Richards Landing – Matthews Site (left to right): Bonnie Campbell, Dr. Beller, Dr. Crawford and Lauren Smith.
Blind River Site (left to right): Mark Donner, Sarah Munro, Melanie Gionette, Paul Verrall and Heather Lawrence, Kneeling is Dylan Alemany-POC coordinator-Charge Technologist
NSHN Announces Incoming President & CEO
The Board of Trustees of the North Shore Health Network (NSHN) is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr. Tim Vine as the organization’s next President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO).
Mr. Tim Vine - Incoming NSHN President & CEO begins on January 3, 2023.
Tim has a B.A. in Economics and a M.A. and Ph.D. in Political Science, and will complete his M.B.A in the spring of 2023. After starting his career in private equity, Tim made the choice to change direction and take on roles serving the community. He has operated in the municipal and healthcare sectors over the last decade, including as Interim Co-CEO at the Manitoulin Health Centre, and most recently as Vice President Finance and Corporate Services and Chief Financial Officer at St. Joseph’s General Hospital Elliot Lake.
Understanding the challenges of rural Northern healthcare, Tim will bring his diverse education and professional experience to NSHN as it continues to deal with COVID-19 and health human resources shortages.
Donna Latulippe, Chair of the NSHN Board of Trustees expressed excitement and optimism in Tim’s appointment, “we had many excellent candidates apply for the position, but Tim stood out. Not only for his experience in rural hospital administration, but also because he lives in the community and is clearly committed to serving within it.”
Tim will begin his role as President and CEO on January 3, 2023.
“NSHN is my local provider, the one my family, and many of my wife’s family across the North Shore access. I want to make sure that local excellent care is available for my community and all the communities NSHN serves. I am honoured to have been the successful candidate, and I cannot wait to join this excellent team and get started on the good, hard work that lies ahead to ensure the promise of public healthcare is met in our communities.” - Tim Vine, Incoming President & CEO, North Shore Health Network
The Board of Trustees would like to thank Mr. David Murray, for serving as interim President and CEO and for his leadership over the past several months, and wish him all the best in his future endeavours.
Cameco Flower Donation
Thank you Cameco Ontario for the lovely donation of flowers to the residents of the North Shore Health Network's Long-Term Care Home, they certainly brightened the day for many.
Laboratory Appointment Update
The North Shore Health Network Laboratory continues to experience staffing challenges impacting appointment scheduling.
Due to increased volumes, laboratory appointments are currently being booked up to 2 weeks from the time of call. If you require bloodwork for a specific date, please call to book an appointment well in advance to avoid delays.
All appointments must be pre-scheduled through the dedicated appointment line: 1-705-356-2265 or toll-free 1-888-425-0321 Ext. 2660. Clearly provide your name and best daytime telephone number on the messaging service, a staff member will return your call within 2 business days.
We apologize for the inconvenience and kindly thank you for your patience. Patients may also pursue testing at an alternate provider such as Dyna Care in Elliot Lake or any LifeLabs location.
Thank you for treating our healthcare workers with kindness and respect.
NSHN Long-Term Care Unit - COVID-19
The North Shore Health Network has been advised that workers associated with the Long-Term Care Unit have tested positive for COVID-19. To date, investigation into each case has determined that the virus was acquired through exposure outside of the workplace. The workers are self-isolating at home, following public health direction.
NSHN is working with Algoma Public Health to take a proactive approach to identify and isolate any potential risks to residents, workers & essential caregivers. The following “safety nets” have been applied:
· All long-term care residents and workers have been tested for COVID-19.
· Essential caregivers identified as potential high-risk contacts have been tested for COVID-19.
· All residents have been placed in isolation (droplet/contact).
· Access to the long-term care unit is limited.
o While residents are in isolation, access to the home for Essential Caregivers is not impacted; however, we kindly ask that limited visitation is considered during this time. Exceptions will be made for compassionate or end-of-life circumstances. All visits must be booked in advance by calling 705-356-2265 ext. 2673 or 2350.
Our team continues to work tirelessly. The safety of workers, providers, residents, patients, clients and visitors is a top priority. We urge the community to continue to follow public health guidance as we work to end this pandemic.
Thank you for treating our healthcare workers with kindness and respect.
Long-Term Care Visiting Guidelines Updated
In response to the evolving Omicron situation, the Ontario government, in consultation with the Chief Medical Officer of Health, is taking further actions to protect the health and safety of residents, staff and caregivers in long-term care homes.
On December 30th additional temporary measures went into effect including:
· Access to long-term care homes by general visitors has been paused.
o Designated essential caregivers may continue to enter the home.
· Day absences for all residents for social purposes has been paused.
The measures put in place on December 30th are in addition to the measures announced in mid-December that require all designated essential caregivers to be fully vaccinated* unless they have a valid medical exemption or are attending to a resident in a palliative end-of-life situation. Essential caregivers who were not fully vaccinated were required to have a first dose of COVID-19 vaccine by December 20, 2021 and all required doses to be considered fully vaccinated by February 21, 2022. In the interim, designated essential caregivers who are not fully vaccinated are required to restrict their visit to the resident’s room.
*Fully Vaccinated = received the full series of a vaccine or a combination of vaccines accepted by the Government of Canada (Pfizer, Moderna, AstraZeneca, Janssen/Johnson & Johnson); and you have received your last dose at least 14 days prior to your visit.
· Visiting hours are 9 am – 4 pm and visits must be booked in advance by calling 705-356-2265 ext. 2673 or 2350.
o All staff, students, volunteers, and designated essential caregivers, regardless of vaccination status, require testing at least twice a week prior to entry into the home as part of enhanced screening practices.
While COVID-19 immunizations have demonstrated to be very effective, it is important for Ontarians to not let their guard down in the ongoing fight against the pandemic, in particular with the Delta and Omicron variants. It is essential that all staff, essential caregivers and residents in long-term care homes continue to practice public health measures including screening at entry, masking, physical distancing, hand hygiene and staying home when sick.
For more information regarding Long-Term Care Visiting Guidelines – please contact 705-356-2265 or toll-free 1-888-425-0321 ext. 2673 or 2728.