Hi everyone,
I’m reaching out today, because (as many of you are experiencing right now) we are working at overcapacity across the system. Last week was difficult, but with great effort across the entire system, we managed to move patients through the system. Thank you to the patient flow teams, physicians and frontline staff, and leaders working tirelessly to ensure patients get the care they need.
We are currently operating at a modified Overcapacity Level 4 due to a combination of factors including COVID outbreaks, ongoing high patient volumes, and limited options for discharge. This level is being reviewed daily.
I know this isn’t an easy time. For those of you working on the front lines, I give you my ongoing thanks and admiration. But, thanks and admiration aren’t enough. I wanted to let you know what we’re doing to address this situation.
The following actions are being implemented:
- Focused Discharge Rounds: All facilities are conducting focused discharge rounds to expedite patient transitions to home or alternate care settings.
- Increased Care Capacity: PCH and QEH are working to increase care capacity by opening additional beds and reallocating resources. (removed critical)
- Surgical Adjustments: Surgeries are being prioritized, with non-urgent procedures potentially delayed to free up capacity.
- Staffing Augmentation: HR is actively working to recruiting staff to support increased patient volumes.
- Alternate Care Options: Exploring options for additional long-term care beds and potential out-of-province care for patients requiring specialized services.
- Close Monitoring: Patient flow will continue to monitor the situation closely and provide regular updates and recommendations.
As a reminder, with COVID cases continuing to be a problem on our units, follow the guidance provided by Infection Prevention and Control in this July 15 memo. Being cautious and closely following guidance can help reduce the likelihood of respiratory illnesses spreading, keeping individuals safe and avoiding additional pressure through the system. There are no changes to the COVID protocols yet, but we are closely monitoring with CPHO for signs we may need to institute additional respiratory precautions as the situation evolves.
We will give regular updates on the effectiveness of these measures and any necessary adjustments to the plan.
Thank you again for your dedication and skills in serving Islanders.
Best,
Mel