January 14, 2025
Hi everyone,
We continue to face significant pressures due to overcapacity and limited bed availability across our facilities. However, we are starting to see positive progress and movement in the right direction.
The current situation remains challenging, but it’s important to acknowledge the critical role each of you is playing in navigating this difficult time. Over the past few weeks, your unwavering dedication has been making a profound difference, and I sincerely thank you for your commitment to supporting our patients, their families and the healthcare system.
In response to these challenges, we continue to hold the Hospital Overcapacity Command Table to ensure effective coordination across our system. Additionally, the ongoing efforts of the Transformation Office are focused on optimizing patient flow and ensuring the delivery of timely, high-quality care.
Some of the key strategies we’re implementing to improve patient flow and better utilize our resources include:
- Prioritizing long-term care beds for patients currently in the hospital who require them
- Surging critical care bed availability as needed, including intensive and progressive care beds
- Expanding capacity beyond traditional spaces to accommodate more patients
- Streamlining discharge processes, including assessments for homecare services to support safe and timely discharges
- Coordinating transportation services to assist with patient discharges
- Leveraging homecare programs to maintain patient care at home and expedite discharges
- Establishing dedicated discharge areas in hospitals with specialized staff to ensure timely patient transitions
- Reducing inpatient transition times to improve bed availability and patient flow
- Supportive Discharge Program (PCH and QEH) implementation in partnership with Island EMS
We understand the immense demands being placed on all areas of our healthcare system at this time, and we will continue to adjust and adapt our approach to ensure the best possible outcomes for both patients and staff.
Once again, thank you for your extraordinary efforts and commitment to delivering excellent care, even in these challenging circumstances. Together, we will continue to make progress and improve our system, one step at a time.
Sincerely,
Mel